Geneva, A United Nations-appointed commission has concluded that Israel is responsible for committing genocide in Gaza, citing widespread destruction, civilian deaths, and deliberate policies that meet the criteria outlined in the 1948 Genocide Convention.

The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry found that Israeli authorities and security forces carried out four of the five genocidal acts defined by international law: killing civilians, causing serious bodily and mental harm, inflicting life-threatening conditions, and imposing measures to prevent births.

Commission Chair Navi Pillay stated that the evidence points to “intent to destroy the Palestinians in Gaza,” referencing statements from Israeli officials and military actions that have led to mass starvation, displacement, and infrastructure collapse.

Israel has rejected the findings, calling the report biased and politically motivated. Ambassador Danny Meron dismissed the conclusions as “cherry-picked” and accused the commission of promoting a narrative aligned with Hamas.

The report calls on all nations to fulfill their legal obligations to end the genocide and hold those responsible accountable. It adds to mounting international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which began following Hamas-led attacks in October 2023.