Gaza ethnic cleansing concerns intensify after a UN report cites forcible transfers, civilian deaths and widespread destruction.
GENEVA: Gaza ethnic cleansing concerns have been raised in a new report by the United Nations Human Rights Office, citing intensified attacks, forcible transfers and large scale destruction across Gaza and the West Bank.
Covering the period from November 1, 2024 to October 31, 2025, the report states that the methodical destruction of entire neighbourhoods and the denial of humanitarian assistance in Gaza appear aimed at a permanent demographic shift. It notes that forcible transfers may indicate attempts at long term displacement of Palestinians across the occupied territories.
According to the findings, Israeli forces continued operations in Gaza that resulted in unprecedented civilian casualties, the spread of famine and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. The report states that such conditions are increasingly incompatible with the continued existence of Palestinians in Gaza as a group.
The report further says patterns of deadly attacks raise grave concerns that civilians and civilian objects may have been intentionally targeted. It warns that launching attacks with knowledge of excessive civilian harm could constitute war crimes under international law.
In the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the document details what it describes as systematic unlawful use of force, arbitrary detention and widespread demolition of Palestinian homes.
Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said accountability is indispensable for achieving a just and durable peace. He stressed that impunity undermines prospects for stability in both Palestine and Israel.
