New York, NY – A United Nations investigation into the events surrounding the war in Gaza has revealed shocking findings of war crimes and violations of international law committed by both Israel and Hamas. This marks the first thorough examination by the UN into the conflict that erupted from the October 7 attacks and continued for over eight months, deeply dividing global opinion and escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The reports released on Wednesday cover the period up to the end of 2023, detailing a grim picture of both sides blatantly disregarding international law amid a devastating conflict. Israel strongly refuted the findings, setting off a wave of disputes over accountability and responsibility for the atrocities that unfolded during the conflict.

The United Nations Commission of Inquiry’s investigation began on October 7, the day when Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups initiated a violent rampage in southern Israel, resulting in the death of over 1,200 individuals, a majority of whom were civilians. The horrifying events of that day included intentional attacks on civilians, murder, torture, inhumane treatment, indignity, and the abduction of hostages, including children.

In response to the massacres, Israel declared war on Hamas and launched a full-scale assault on Gaza, resulting in significant destruction and a death toll exceeding 37,000 people, according to Gaza health authorities. The ensuing conflict revealed a pattern of war crimes, including crimes against humanity committed by both Israel and Hamas, as documented by the Commission’s extensive reports spanning over 200 pages.

The Commission’s findings were based on a thorough examination of evidence gathered from interviews with victims, witnesses, forensic analysis, satellite imagery, and media coverage, including various investigative reports. The reports shed light on disturbing accounts of sexual violence, torture, deliberate attacks on civilians, and other heinous acts carried out by both parties involved in the conflict.

Israel responded to the report by accusing the fact-finding mission of bias and attempting to justify the actions of Hamas. The tense relations between Israel and the UN have further deteriorated, with the international body calling for immediate accountability and adherence to international law to prevent future cycles of violence and retribution.

The Commission’s chair, Navi Pillay, emphasized the importance of holding all perpetrators accountable for their crimes and stressed the need for strict adherence to international law as the only way to break the recurring cycles of violence in the region. As the international community grapples with the aftermath of the conflict, the call for justice and accountability remains paramount to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East.