UN Report Says Palestinians Face Abuse From Multiple Sides

The report, presented ahead of the UN Human Rights Council’s upcoming session in Geneva, examines conditions across the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, as well as Israel.

A new report from the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry has accused both Israeli authorities and Hamas-affiliated forces of committing serious human rights violations against Palestinian civilians, describing a situation where ordinary people are caught between violence from different actors and left with few avenues for protection.

The report, presented ahead of the UN Human Rights Council's upcoming session in Geneva, examines conditions across the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, as well as Israel. Investigators concluded that Israeli authorities bear primary responsibility for the actions of settlers in the West Bank, while Hamas-linked groups are responsible for abuses committed by Palestinian militants in Gaza.

Commission Chair Srinivasan Muralidhar said Palestinian civilians continue to endure suffering from different sources, with each side contributing to an environment marked by fear, insecurity and widespread violations of international law.

Settler violence linked to state support, investigators say

According to the report, attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians have increased sharply in recent years. The Commission recorded at least seven Palestinian deaths and 832 injuries linked to settler violence in 2025, representing a significant rise compared with the previous year. Investigators noted that attacks have continued on a near-daily basis during 2026.

The report alleges that Israeli authorities have enabled settler violence through military protection, financial support and a lack of accountability for perpetrators. Investigators argue that violence carried out by settlers serves broader objectives connected to the expansion of settlements, the displacement of Palestinian communities and the strengthening of Israeli control over occupied territory.

Particular concern was expressed over incidents involving children. The Commission documented cases in which Palestinian children were assaulted, abducted or intimidated while attending school, playing outdoors or helping their families with agricultural work. Investigators said these experiences can leave lasting psychological effects and disrupt access to education and normal childhood development. The report also highlights allegations of sexual violence, threats and intimidation directed at Palestinian women and girls, creating barriers to education, employment and participation in public life.

Hamas accused of executions and torture in Gaza

In Gaza, investigators documented hundreds of cases involving executions and severe physical violence during 2024 and 2025. The report identified at least 108 deaths and 384 injuries linked to these incidents, with Hamas-affiliated forces allegedly involved in dozens of cases.

Among the incidents examined were public executions and acts that the Commission says amount to the war crimes of murder and torture. Investigators warned that these actions have added further trauma to a population already facing the consequences of prolonged conflict and widespread destruction.

The report also notes an increase in attacks against Israeli civilians carried out by Palestinian armed groups and individuals. Investigators stated that such attacks raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes. The Commission further criticised measures adopted by Israel in response to security threats, including a recently passed death penalty law, arguing that some policies may conflict with international legal obligations. UN investigators said lasting peace and stability will require accountability for abuses committed by all sides, alongside stronger protections for civilians living through the conflict.