Human Rights Watch and Doctors Without Borders Accuse Israel of Genocide in Gaza
Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Doctors Without Borders (MSF) have issued strong condemnations of Israel's actions during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, labeling them as acts of "genocide" and "ethnic cleansing." In a report released on December 19, 2024, HRW stated that Israeli authorities have systematically deprived Palestinians of access to water, which has led to thousands of deaths. The organization argues that these actions are designed to destroy a portion of the population and constitute crimes against humanity.
According to HRW, the Israeli government has imposed living conditions that intentionally deny Palestinians in Gaza adequate access to essential resources such as water, food, and electricity. The report highlights that since the onset of the war following Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly, with more than 45,000 Palestinian lives reportedly lost, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry. In contrast, the Israeli side has suffered 1,208 casualties, including hostages.
Israeli Government's Response to Allegations
The Israeli Foreign Ministry has vehemently rejected these allegations, labeling them as "lies" and accusing HRW of promoting anti-Israel propaganda. A military spokesman stated that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) do not deliberately target water infrastructure in Gaza. The Israeli body overseeing civilian affairs in the occupied territories, COGAT, claims that three water pipelines from Israel are currently operational. However, HRW argues that the limitations on water access indicate a desire for extermination, which could be interpreted as genocidal intent.
In a statement, then-Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared a "complete siege" on Gaza, asserting that there would be no electricity, food, or water supplied to the territory. This blockade has severely impacted the availability of humanitarian aid, with MSF reporting numerous attacks on their staff and facilities in Gaza.
Calls for International Action
Both HRW and MSF are urging the international community to take action to prevent further humanitarian crises in Gaza. HRW has called for immediate guarantees of sufficient water, fuel, and electricity to ensure the fundamental rights of Gazans are respected. The organization has also demanded sanctions against Israel for its actions, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability in the face of what they describe as genocide. The ongoing conflict continues to raise significant concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the implications for regional stability.
