The UN report is intended to be detailed and damning, presenting evidence it says shows that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. It states that Israel has breached the Genocide Convention established in 1948 following the atrocities of Nazi Germany.
Israel denies all allegations that its conduct in Gaza has contravened international laws, justifying its military operations as measures for self-defense and the protection of its citizens. Israel's officials have denounced the report as lies influenced by Hamas.
The commission of inquiry tasked with the report was established by the UN Human Rights Council, which Israel and the US have criticized for perceived bias. Nonetheless, the findings are likely to fuel a growing chorus of international condemnation against Israel's military tactics, even from traditional Western allies and Gulf nations that recently established ties with Israel.
Next week at the UN General Assembly, several nations, including the UK, France, and Australia, are expected to recognize the sovereignty of an independent Palestinian state, marking a significant shift in international stance towards the longstanding conflict.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argues that the idea of a Palestinian state is incompatible with Israeli security, claiming it would expose citizens to danger.
The UN report details actions against Palestinians in Gaza, including targeted attacks on civilians, forced displacements, and an imposed blockade leading to famine. These allegations are compounded by claims against Israeli officials for inciting genocide.
Legal definitions of genocide, as set forth by the 1948 convention, require proof of intent to destroy a particular group, making it a complex charge to substantiate in a court of law.
Despite the controversies, the potential implications of the report may enhance scrutiny on Israel, breaking down international relations further amidst ongoing violence and humanitarian crises in the region.
