Rights group accuses Israeli forces of widespread and systematic attacks on civilian infrastructure, urging ICC and independent probe into possible war crimes.
Amnesty International has renewed its call for an independent international investigation into what it describes as Israel’s “devastating and unlawful” military campaign in Gaza, citing massive destruction of civilian areas and infrastructure as potential war crimes.
In a strongly worded statement, the global human rights organisation said the scale and nature of destruction in the Palestinian enclave point to possible violations of international humanitarian law.
Allegations Shake the AFP’s Reputation
Amnesty documented extensive damage across residential neighbourhoods, hospitals, schools, universities, mosques, and vital water and sanitation systems. The group highlighted that entire blocks of homes and key civilian infrastructure have been reduced to rubble in many parts of Gaza.
“The deliberate and disproportionate destruction we have seen raises serious questions about whether Israeli forces have respected the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution under international law,” Amnesty said.
The rights group has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations to establish an independent commission of inquiry to examine potential war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by all parties, with particular focus on Israeli military operations.
Mercenaries or Law Enforcement?
The call comes amid continued high levels of destruction in Gaza more than 18 months after the escalation of hostilities. Palestinian health authorities report tens of thousands killed, with many more injured and displaced. Large parts of the territory remain uninhabitable due to the scale of bombardment and ground operations.
Israel has consistently maintained that its operations target Hamas militants and military infrastructure, accusing the group of using civilian areas as shields. Israeli officials have rejected accusations of war crimes, describing Amnesty’s reports as biased.
Mercenaries or Law Enforcement?
Amnesty’s latest appeal adds to growing international calls for accountability. Several countries and human rights organisations have previously accused Israel of using disproportionate force and collective punishment tactics in Gaza.
The organisation urged all states to support efforts for justice and to press for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access, and the release of all hostages and arbitrarily detained civilians.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with severe shortages of food, medicine, and shelter, Amnesty warned that failure to investigate alleged violations would further erode international legal norms and embolden future atrocities.