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

Human Rights Watch has issued a scathing report asserting that Israel's military actions in Gaza, specifically targeting water infrastructure, have led to acts that meet the definition of genocide. Israel has firmly rejected these accusations, calling them propaganda.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has made shocking claims against Israel, alleging that the military's actions in Gaza constitute "acts of genocide" by systematically denying Palestinian civilians access to essential water supplies. HRW's report, which spans 179 pages, details how Israeli forces have intentionally damaged critical water and sanitation infrastructure, contributing to what the organization deems a calculated policy of deprivation.

According to HRW, since October 2023, Israel has obstructed the flow of adequate water necessary for survival in Gaza, resulting in thousands of deaths attributed to dehydration and disease—actions labeled as "crimes against humanity" and potentially genocide. The report is based on interviews with Gaza locals, insights from water authority officials, sanitation experts, and medical professionals, as well as satellite data spanning from October 2023 to September 2024.

Israel's response to these allegations has been adamant and dismissive, labeling the HRW report as nothing more than "propaganda." Oren Marmorstein, a spokesman for Israel's foreign ministry, contends that the country has continuously facilitated the flow of water and humanitarian aid into Gaza despite persistent attacks from Hamas. He claims that essential water infrastructure, including pipelines, remains operational and that water supplies are consistently delivered via Israeli crossings.

The HRW report arrives on the heels of intensified violence following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of around 1,200 individuals and led to a significant Israeli military response in Gaza. The health ministry in Gaza suggests that over 45,129 people have lost their lives since the onset of this conflict, although the exact number of those who perished due to lack of water is unquantified.

The report also addresses the threshold for genocide under international law, emphasizing the importance of intent demonstrated through governmental actions and statements. In contrast, Israel maintains that its military operations do not intentionally target civilians, asserting that their focus is solely on Hamas.

As accusations of genocide mount, the case brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) by South Africa further amplifies the scrutiny on Israel's actions in Gaza, adding to a growing concern from human rights organizations and international bodies. Despite the escalating situation, Israel continues to reject allegations of wrongdoing, describing them as unfounded and driven by anti-Semitic sentiments.