The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, emphasized on Wednesday during a Human Rights Council meeting in Geneva that there is “no justification” for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Turk pointed out numerous human rights infringements occurring within Gaza, highlighting a significant breach of humanitarian laws by both Israel and Hamas since the tragic events of October 7.

He expressed skepticism regarding Israel’s willingness to accept full responsibility for the unlawful fatalities occurring in Gaza and the West Bank.

War Crimes by Palestinian Armed Groups

Turk also brought attention to the war crimes committed by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups, such as the taking and mistreatment of hostages, as well as the indiscriminate launching of projectiles into Israeli territory. He raised concerns about potential further violations, including the deliberate placement of military targets alongside Palestinian civilians.

“To build a future free from such atrocities, it is essential that those responsible are held accountable,” stated Turk.

In his address, Turk also reacted to Israel’s recent directive to ban UNRWA and the sanctions imposed by the United States on the International Criminal Court earlier this month, stating that “discrediting and intimidating international bodies designed to uphold human rights and enforce global law is detrimental to everyone.”

He asserted that any efforts to annex Palestinian lands or forcibly relocate civilians—issues recently suggested by former U.S. President Donald Trump—must be actively opposed.

“This is a pivotal moment for rational voices to emerge, advocating for solutions that promote justice, compassion, healing, and the pursuit of truth,” Turk concluded.