The United Nations has strongly condemned the unlawful killings and deteriorating human rights situation in the West Bank, as it calls on Israel to put an end to these actions. In a report released on Thursday, the U.N. demanded the immediate cessation of the use of military weapons and means during law enforcement operations. It also called for an end to arbitrary detentions and ill-treatment of Palestinians, as well as the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions.
Volker Türk, the U.N. rights chief, expressed deep concern over the use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, unnecessary or disproportionate use of force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary, and discriminatory movement restrictions that greatly impact Palestinians. Türk stated, The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years.
The report focused on the human rights situation in the occupied West Bank and annexed East Jerusalem since the Oct. 7 Hamas incursion that resulted in approximately 1,140 deaths. In response, Israel launched a brutal aerial bombardment and implemented a siege followed by a ground invasion, resulting in at least 21,110 deaths, predominantly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
The report documented a sharp increase in airstrikes, incursions into refugee camps, and other densely-populated areas, leading to numerous deaths, injuries, and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. In addition, it highlighted a significant rise in settler attacks, including shootings, the burning of homes and vehicles, and the uprooting of trees.
Volker Türk called on Israel to put an end to settler violence against the Palestinian population and to conduct thorough investigations into all incidents involving violence by settlers and Israeli security forces. He emphasized the need for effective protection of Palestinian communities against any form of forcible transfer and the ability of herding communities, displaced due to repeated attacks, to return to their lands.
According to the U.N. Human Rights Office, between Oct. 7 and Dec. 27, it verified the deaths of 300 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and annexed East Jerusalem, including 79 children. Of these deaths, Israeli security forces were responsible for killing at least 291 Palestinians, while eight were killed by settlers, and one Palestinian died from either Israeli security forces or settlers.
The rights office also revealed that prior to Oct. 7, 2023, 200 Palestinians had already been killed in the area, marking the highest number of deaths in a ten-month period since the U.N. began recording data in 2005.
Türk called on Israel to allow his office access to the country, stating they were prepared to report similarly on the Oct. 7 attacks.
As the international community closely watches the situation unfold, the U.N.’s condemnation of Israel’s actions highlights the urgent need to address the unlawful killings and human rights abuses in the West Bank. The international community awaits Israel’s response and hopes for a swift resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
