Thu Dec 19 16:56:00 UTC 2024: **Human Rights Watch Accuses Israel of Genocide in Gaza Over Water Restrictions**
NEW YORK (December 19, 2024) – Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing acts of genocide in Gaza by systematically restricting and targeting the territory’s water supply. The report, released Thursday, alleges that thousands of Palestinians have died from malnutrition, dehydration, and illness due to Israel’s actions, which HRW describes as a deliberate campaign to cut off water and electricity, destroy infrastructure, and prevent the distribution of essential supplies.
The organization states that this constitutes a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population, amounting to the crime against humanity of extermination. While acknowledging that proving genocidal intent is key under international law, HRW points to the pattern of conduct and statements from Israeli officials as potentially indicating such intent.
Israel vehemently denies the allegations, asserting that its military actions target Hamas militants and that the October 2023 Hamas attack constitutes genocide. The Israeli Foreign Ministry called HRW’s report “blood libels” and anti-Israel propaganda, maintaining that Israel has worked to facilitate the flow of water and humanitarian aid into Gaza. They cited the continued operation of water pipelines and facilities and the allowance of international aid deliveries.
HRW’s report details a significant reduction in Gaza’s water supply, from approximately 83 liters per person daily before the war to between 2 and 9 liters currently. This contrasts sharply with the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 50 to 100 liters per day. The organization cites the destruction of solar panels powering wastewater treatment plants, key reservoirs, and desalination plants as evidence of deliberate actions by Israeli forces. They also allege that Israel ignored International Court of Justice orders to provide basic services to Palestinians.
HRW’s findings are based on interviews with over 60 Palestinians, as well as accounts from utility employees, medical professionals, aid workers, and analysis of satellite imagery. The report follows a similar accusation from Amnesty International two weeks prior, which Israel also dismissed. The International Criminal Court is currently seeking the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with a vast majority of the population displaced and facing severe shortages of essential resources. The UN and international aid groups have also criticized Israel’s restrictions on aid shipments.
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