A group of experts from the United Nations (UN) has stated that Israel “must face consequences” for what they describe as a sustained campaign to undermine the legal framework protecting civilians in armed conflict, as military operations continue.
“We have repeatedly reminded Israel that international humanitarian law consists of universal and binding rules designed to protect civilian persons and objects that are not, or are no longer, directly participating in hostilities, and to limit the means and methods of warfare,” the experts said in an official statement.
“Rather than complying with these rules, Israel has openly defied international law on numerous occasions, resulting in maximum suffering for civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory and beyond,” they added.
Allegations of Serious Violations
Citing multiple alleged breaches of international law, the experts accused Israel of committing “crimes against humanity,” including killings, torture, sexual violence, and repeated forced displacement.
They further alleged the commission of war crimes, including:
- Indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure
- Attacks on objects indispensable to civilian survival
- Targeting of educational institutions and cultural heritage sites
- Use of starvation as a method of warfare
- Attacks on healthcare workers and facilities
- Restrictions on humanitarian aid access
- Targeting of journalists
- Collective punishment
“The totality of these acts must be assessed against the entire civilian population under Israeli occupation, who are protected persons under international law and not lawful military targets,” the experts stated.
They warned that actions intended to destroy a population in whole or in part could amount to genocide.
Concerns Over Northern Gaza
The experts also expressed grave concern over the situation in northern Gaza, stating that Israel has “seriously” breached its obligations as an occupying power.
They pointed to:
- Indiscriminate attacks, including on shelters for displaced persons
- Strikes on Kamal Adwan Hospital and surrounding areas
- A tightening siege over the past three months
These actions, they said, violate Israel’s legal duty to ensure the protection of civilians.
“We are deeply disturbed that the siege, combined with expanding evacuation orders, appears aimed at permanently displacing the local population, potentially as a precursor to annexation—another violation of international law,” the statement said.
Calls for Accountability
Despite rulings by the International Court of Justice and arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a former defense minister, the experts noted a lack of tangible consequences.
“Israel continues to face little real accountability, largely due to protection from its allies, who have also acted to delegitimize international institutions and discredit UN Special Procedures mandate holders,” they said.
Urgent Call for Independent Investigations
The experts reiterated the urgent need for independent and comprehensive investigations into alleged serious violations of international law.
“Ongoing impunity sends a dangerous message that parties to conflicts worldwide do not need to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law,” they warned.
“We must not allow the multilateral system to be weakened. Israel and its leadership must be held accountable.”
