UN Panel Accuses Israel of Deliberately Targeting Children in Gaza

An independent United Nations investigative panel says Israeli forces intentionally targeted Palestinian children in Gaza, using drones, snipers and high‑explosive munitions in densely populated areas. The report states that the attacks fit a “deliberate strategy” aimed at destroying the future of Gaza’s population and constitute war crimes and acts of genocide. It notes that about 30 % of the war‑related deaths in Gaza were children.

Israel’s foreign ministry rejected the findings, calling the document slanderous and denying any intent to target civilians. Israeli officials say the military attacks are directed at Hamas militants who hide among civilians, and that the report ignores Hamas’ tactics. The panel, created by the UN Human Rights Council in 2021, previously accused Israel of genocide in September 2022. The latest allegations add a specific charge of intentionally killing children.

The United Nations panel’s conclusions have reignited diplomatic tensions and calls for accountability, while Israel maintains its right to self‑defence and disputes the legal characterisation of its actions.