A United Nations commission of independent experts has accused Israel of continuing to commit acts of genocide in Gaza despite the ceasefire agreement signed in October 2025. The group also alleges that Israeli forces have engaged in crimes against humanity, including torture and sexual violence, in the West Bank, according to a report released Monday.
The report, produced by the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, asserts that Israeli military operations have expanded deeper into Gaza since the ceasefire took effect, increasing Israeli territorial control in the enclave from 53% to at least 60%. During this period, the commission documented the deaths of at least 196 Palestinians, including civilians such as women and children, resulting from Israeli fire across the advancing front.
Regarding conditions in detention facilities, the commission reported multiple instances of sexual violence and mistreatment by Israeli soldiers and prison guards against Palestinian detainees. These accounts include graphic allegations of sexual assault, beatings, and verbal abuse. Among the cases cited were a pregnant Palestinian woman reportedly subjected to invasive searches by female guards, and several male detainees who experienced sexual violence at the Sde Teiman military prison. Specific incidents detailed include the use of objects in sexual assaults and humiliating treatment involving physical restraints. The commission highlighted six recent cases involving sexual violence against male detainees from Gaza.
The commission’s findings, which aim to provide thorough documentation of alleged violations, may be used by prosecutors at the International Criminal Court or other legal bodies to pursue accountability.
Israel rejected the report’s conclusions, characterizing it as part of a misinformation campaign intended to demonize the state and delegitimize its existence. Israel’s mission in Geneva called for the dissolution of the commission and denied accusations of genocide and sexual abuse by its forces. Israeli officials have consistently disputed the commission's prior reports and questioned the credibility of the allegations.
The conflict escalated following a large-scale attack by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, in which 1,200 people were killed and 251 hostages taken. Israel responded with a military campaign in Gaza that, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, has resulted in over 74,000 Palestinian deaths. Despite the ceasefire reducing the intensity of active hostilities, the commission’s report indicates that significant violence and human rights violations persist.
The situation remains deeply contentious, with each side presenting conflicting narratives amid ongoing diplomatic efforts and scrutiny from international bodies. The commission’s report adds to the complex discourse on accountability and the humanitarian impact of the prolonged conflict in the occupied Palestinian territories.