Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Unveiling Evidence of Hamas-Led Attacks

Verification of Hamas-Led Attacks as War Crimes

Human Rights Watch has verified four videos of the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas-led gunmen in Israel, showing three incidents of deliberate killings. In response to these attacks, Israel launched thousands of airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of thousands of people, including hundreds of children. These incidents highlight the urgent need for an investigation into potential war crimes from both sides.

Importance of the International Criminal Court (ICC)

Ida Sawyer, crisis and conflict director at Human Rights Watch, emphasizes the importance of the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC prosecutor has stated that he has the authority to investigate serious crimes committed by both Palestinian armed groups in Israel and Israeli authorities in Gaza. The verified videos provide clear evidence that warrants the ICC’s attention.

War Crimes and Violations of International Humanitarian Law

Under international humanitarian law, or the law of armed conflict, targeting civilians is strictly prohibited, and intentionally targeting and killing civilians are considered war crimes. It is crucial to emphasize that violations and abuses by one party in a conflict do not justify violations, including targeting civilians, by another party. Both Hamas and Israeli authorities must be held accountable for their actions.

Verified Incidents

Human Rights Watch has analyzed three verified videos that capture the atrocities committed during the October 7 attacks:

Incident 1

In this video, taken from a dashcam at 7:55 a.m., seven gunmen are seen kicking a shirtless man in front of a bomb shelter connected to the Re’im Junction bus stop. One gunman throws an object into the shelter, causing an explosion. As the man tries to flee, he is shot at and killed by the gunmen. The fate of the other man in the shelter is unclear. CNN’s visit to the shelter revealed blood splatters inside, indicating a violent scene.

Incident 2

A second verified video shows security camera footage filmed at 8:43 a.m. A man in civilian clothing, who appears to be fatally shot, lies bleeding on the ground. A group of gunmen then congregates in front of a structure close to the dead man. One of the gunmen throws an object towards the structure, causing an explosion. Another individual is dragged out of the structure and is shot at close range, while being beaten with a rifle by one of the gunmen.

Incident 3

The third verified video, filmed at 9:23 a.m. from a dashcam, shows a gunman shooting at a bloodied man in civilian clothing crouching next to a car. The gunman then leads the man off-camera. Another man, who does not appear armed, is lying on the ground near a vehicle. A gunman runs up to him, aims the rifle at his head, and shoots him at close range.

These incidents clearly demonstrate intentional killings of civilians, which constitute war crimes under international law.

ICC Investigation and Calls for Accountability

The ICC prosecutor previously opened an investigation into alleged serious crimes committed in Palestine since June 13, 2014. Palestine became a member of the ICC on April 1, 2015. Human Rights Watch has called on the ICC prosecutor to issue a public statement urgently regarding the mandate of the ICC in relation to the current hostilities between Palestinian armed groups and Israel.

In the following weeks and months, Human Rights Watch intends to share additional research findings, further building the body of evidence of grave abuses in Israel and Palestine. The organization will continue to call for accountability and for those responsible for war crimes to be held to account.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Peace

The verification of the videos documenting the Hamas-led attacks as war crimes highlights the urgent need for justice and accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Both Israeli authorities and Hamas must be held responsible for their actions. The ongoing ICC investigation offers a significant opportunity for impartial justice to prevail.

In addition to legal measures, it is essential for all parties involved to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful solutions to end the cycle of violence. The international community, including relevant diplomatic actors, must play an active role in facilitating negotiations to achieve a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

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