Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing “acts of genocide” in Gaza by intentionally depriving civilians of water, damaging infrastructure, and obstructing aid. The rights group claims that Israeli actions, including the destruction of water systems and blocking fuel and repair materials, have caused widespread death and suffering among Palestinians. HRW further asserts that this conduct amounts to the war crime of “extermination” and genocide, with thousands of lives at risk due to lack of access to water and sanitation.
While HRW did not definitively label Israel’s actions as genocide, it highlighted the possibility of genocidal intent based on statements by Israeli officials and the severity of the actions. The report, compiled from interviews, satellite images, and data, documented preventable deaths from dehydration and water-borne diseases in Gaza. HRW urged Israel to restore essential services and called on the international community to take action, including imposing sanctions and reviewing military support to Israel. This report follows similar claims made by other human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Doctors Without Borders.
