NOV 15, V7N- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza, alleging a deliberate campaign of forced mass displacement of Palestinians. The 154-page report, released Thursday by the US-based advocacy group, outlines widespread destruction in Gaza over the past 13 months, which the United Nations estimates has displaced approximately 1.9 million Palestinians, accounting for over 90% of the region’s population.

The report highlights “deliberate, controlled demolitions of homes and civilian infrastructure” by Israeli forces, which HRW claims are designed to create buffer zones and security corridors that prevent Palestinians from returning to their homes.

“The Israeli government cannot claim to be keeping Palestinians safe when it kills them along escape routes, bombs so-called safe zones, and cuts off food, water, and sanitation,” said Nadia Hardman, HRW's refugee and migrant rights researcher.

The organization accuses Israel of violating its obligations under international law by razing large areas of Gaza and permanently displacing its population.

In response, the Israeli military denied the allegations, asserting its adherence to international law and stating that evacuation orders are issued to protect civilians during combat operations.

The military rejected claims of a strategy aimed at maximizing destruction of civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that all complaints of potential violations are referred to an internal review body.

The report adds to growing international scrutiny over Israel's military operations in Gaza amid escalating tensions and allegations of human rights abuses. HRW’s findings underscore the severe humanitarian crisis in the region and raise questions about accountability and compliance with international law.

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