GENEVA, Tuesday, October 10, 2023 (WAFA) - The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel, today said that there is already clear evidence that war crimes may have been committed in Gaza, stressing that all those who have violated international law and targeted civilians must be held accountable for their crimes.

It said it was “gravely concerned with Israel’s latest attack on Gaza and Israel’s announcement of a complete siege on Gaza involving the withholding of water, food, electricity and fuel which will undoubtfully cost civilian lives and constitutes collective punishment.”

The Commission said it is intent “on ensuring legal accountability, including individual criminal and command responsibility. To that end, the Commission is committed to investigating current events and identifying those responsible for violations of international law.”

It emphasized that “the only path towards ending violence and achieving sustainable peace is through addressing the root causes of the conflict including through ending the illegal occupation of Palestinian territory and recognizing the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.”

M.K.