UN Rapporteur Francesca Albanese accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. In recent statements, Albanese noted that the classification of genocide is based on the observation of facts and the application of international law.

Albanese highlighted several key areas of concern, including the killing of approximately 30,000 people within a five-month period, the use of torture, and the systematic destruction of vital infrastructure. She reported that Palestinian populations, including children, women, the elderly, and the disabled, are being targeted. One report indicated that over 21,000 children have been killed in Gaza since military operations intensified in October 2023.

Beyond Gaza, Albanese addressed the situation in the West Bank, stating that approximately 700 people were killed between October 2023 and October 2024 in areas where Hamas was not present and no armed resistance was recorded. She also criticized Western governments and private companies for their complicity and noted a perceived media silence regarding these events.