Human Rights Watch Accuses Israel of Genocide in Gaza Over Water Access

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing acts of genocide in Gaza by deliberately damaging water and sanitation infrastructure, leading to severe water shortages. Israel has dismissed the allegations as unfounded propaganda in the wake of ongoing military actions following Hamas attacks.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has leveled serious allegations against Israel, accusing the state of committing "acts of genocide" in Gaza through the deliberate deprivation of sufficient water access for Palestinian civilians. According to HRW, the Israeli military has intentionally targeted water and sanitation infrastructure, resulting in thousands of deaths, which the organization states constitutes "the crime against humanity of extermination."

In their extensive 179-page report, HRW claims that since the onset of military operations in October 2023, Israeli authorities have systematically hindered Palestinian access to essential water resources crucial for survival. The report alleges intentional damage to critical infrastructure, such as solar panels that power water treatment facilities, and other components necessary for the distribution of water, while also hindering fuel supplies for operating generators.

Tirana Hassan, HRW’s executive director, commented, stating, "This isn't just negligence; it is a calculated policy of deprivation that has led to thousands of deaths from dehydration and disease." The report is anchored in interviews with numerous Gazans, consultations with water authority representatives, healthcare professionals, and analysis of satellite imagery from October 2023 to September 2024.

In response, an Israeli foreign ministry spokesperson dismissed HRW's claims, labeling the report as erroneous propaganda and "blood libels." Oren Marmorstein stated that, contrary to HRW’s assertions, Israel has been facilitating the flow of water and humanitarian aid into Gaza, while maintaining that all water systems within its control remain fully operational.

The report follows a series of accusations from various rights organizations asserting that Israel's military campaign in Gaza may amount to genocide. An ongoing examination by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is considering a case filed by South Africa, asserting similar claims against Israel. The term "genocide," as defined by the 1948 Genocide Convention, denotes actions aimed at the destruction, either in whole or in part, of a particular national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.

Israel continues to firmly reject HRW's allegations, asserting that its military operations focus solely on Hamas and avoid civilian targets.