A recent report released by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Hamas and several other Palestinian armed groups of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during an attack on southern Israel on 7 October. The report highlights numerous violations, including deliberate and indiscriminate attacks on civilians, wilful killing of persons in custody, sexual and gender-based violence, hostage-taking, mutilation of bodies, and looting. These actions were described as “central aims of the planned attack” and not an afterthought. The report is based on interviews with witnesses, analysis of photographs and videos, and sheds light on the atrocities committed during the assault.
The findings have sparked outrage, with Hamas vehemently denying the allegations and demanding an apology. The report also points to the participation of at least four other Palestinian armed groups in the attack, based on evidence such as headbands worn by the gunmen and social media claims. The report raises concerns about a systematic and widespread assault on civilians, amounting to a crime against humanity. It calls for further investigation into potential crimes such as persecution, rape, and extermination.
Hamas’s response to the report includes a commitment to respecting international law and a denial of intentionally targeting civilians. However, HRW’s findings contradict these claims, citing evidence of gunmen deliberately seeking out and killing civilians during the attack. The back-and-forth between HRW and Hamas underscores the complexity of the situation and the differing narratives surrounding the events of 7 October.
The report’s publication has garnered international attention, with calls for accountability and justice for the victims of the attack. The details uncovered by HRW shed light on the severity of the crimes committed and the need for thorough investigations into the actions of all parties involved. Moving forward, it will be crucial to address the allegations raised in the report and work towards preventing similar atrocities in the future.
