War Crimes Uncovered: HRW Report on Hamas-led Attacks

A Human Rights Watch report reveals extensive war crimes committed by Hamas-led armed groups during the Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. The report, based on extensive research and eyewitness accounts, concludes that the attacks resulted in numerous civilian deaths and hostages, meeting the criteria for crimes against humanity.

A Human Rights Watch report has uncovered extensive war crimes committed by Hamas-led armed groups during the Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. This assault triggered the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. The report, released Wednesday, determined that the militants' actions constituted crimes against humanity.

The HRW report found that five Palestinian armed groups, led by Hamas' Qassam Brigades, engaged in activities such as killing, torturing, taking hostages, looting, and sexual and gender-based violence. Although HRW couldn't independently verify claims of sexual violence, they cited a U.N. envoy report stating there were reasonable grounds to believe such crimes occurred.

HRW's 230-page document focuses solely on the Oct. 7 attacks and excludes subsequent actions by Hamas and Israel in Gaza. Belkis Wille, HRW associate director, emphasized that these crimes against civilians were part of a coordinated plan, as evidenced by extensive research, interviews, and video footage. HRW called for the immediate release of hostages and compliance with international law.