Ajith Sunghay, Head of UN Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, presented a report covering the period from October 7 2023, to May 31 2025. The report documents widespread violations of international law by both Israeli and Palestinian actors, including alleged war crimes and possible crimes against humanity.
Sunghay said the ceasefire agreed in October 2025 reduced the scale of violence but did not end hostilities. Killings and destruction of infrastructure have continued almost daily, while the humanitarian situation remains severe. Sunghay added that Hamas has also continued violations, including actions affecting civilians in Gaza.
The report details the impact of the October 2023 attacks by Palestinian armed groups, which resulted in at least 1 124 deaths in Israel, hostage taking and sustained rocket fire. Sunghay said testimonies from released hostages indicate torture, ill treatment and sexual violence.
In Gaza, the report describes large-scale destruction and loss of life linked to Israeli military operations. Sunghay said more than 72 000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, including in homes, shelters, hospitals and while seeking aid.
The report also raises concerns about the use of starvation during the conflict. Sunghay said the blockade of Gaza contributed to famine conditions, warning that using starvation as a method of warfare constitutes a war crime and could amount to crimes against humanity.
Displacement remains a major concern. Sunghay said large numbers of Palestinians have been forced to leave homes that have since been destroyed. In some cases, buildings still contain unrecovered bodies.
In the West Bank, Sunghay said forced displacement has accelerated sharply. Since October 2023, at least 1 096 Palestinians have been killed, with about 20% identified as children. Sunghay said violence involving settlers and Israeli forces has increased, often occurring with limited accountability.
Settlement expansion has also intensified. Sunghay said expansion has increased by 80%, with more than 100 new settlements established. Thousands of displaced Palestinians remain unable to return home, particularly in areas such as Jenin, Tulkarem and Nur Shams.
The report highlights ongoing allegations of abuse against Palestinian detainees, including torture, sexual violence and denial of basic needs. Sunghay said the ceasefire has not led to meaningful accountability for violations. Sunghay warned that continued lack of action risks enabling further abuses.
Sunghay called on the international community to take steps to protect civilians, ensure accountability and address underlying drivers of the conflict, including the prolonged occupation.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
