Palestinians subjected to systematic abuse by Israeli settlers and Hamas: UN report
Dual crisis threatens civilian populations
Palestinians face systematic abuse by Israeli – Independent investigators have uncovered that Palestinian civilians are enduring consistent human rights violations from both Israeli settlers and Hamas. A recent report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel highlights a troubling pattern of aggression affecting people in the West Bank and Gaza. The findings, released on Tuesday, reveal that the conflict has intensified, with settlers launching attacks and Hamas implementing harsh measures, creating a volatile environment for those living under occupation. The commission, tasked by the UN Human Rights Council, emphasizes the shared responsibility of these groups in the ongoing suffering of the population.
Systematic violence across territories
The report describes the abuse as “intentional and systematic,” with both parties contributing to the escalation of violence. While Israeli settlers are responsible for many attacks in the West Bank, Hamas has been implicated in severe physical and psychological harm in Gaza. Srinivasan Muralidhar, the commission’s chair, noted that the conflict’s roots are complex, but the tactics used by settlers and Hamas-affiliated forces often rely on fear to control civilian life. “Both sides are employing violence to advance their strategic goals,” he stated, underscoring the interconnected nature of these abuses.
Escalating settler attacks
Settler violence in the West Bank has surged, with at least seven Palestinians killed and 832 injured last year—a 130% increase compared to the previous year. The report attributes this rise to Israeli policies that support settler activities, including financial and military backing, as well as a lack of accountability. “Settler attacks are not isolated,” the commission stressed, “but a deliberate tool to expand settlements, annex land, and displace Palestinians.” The report highlights how these actions fuel the cycle of conflict and deepen civilian trauma.
Children and gender-based assaults
Among the most alarming findings is the targeting of Palestinian children in attacks. The commission documented instances where children were assaulted, abducted, or abused during play or while traveling to school. Settlers have also used sexual violence to instill fear, as seen in a March incident in Khirbeit Humsa. A family was attacked, with women and girls beaten and threatened with rape. The report details how such tactics are employed to intimidate and suppress resistance, leaving lasting psychological scars on vulnerable communities.
Harsh measures in Gaza
In Gaza, the commission identified 249 cases of executions and severe violence between 2024 and 2025, resulting in 108 deaths and 384 injuries. These acts were justified as punishments for collaboration with Israel, theft of aid, or ties to rival groups. Hamas-affiliated forces were linked to at least 60 incidents, including two public executions of 11 men. The report classifies these actions as war crimes, citing murder and torture as key components. Such measures, the commission argues, have destabilized civilian life and entrenched fear in the population.
Accountability and international response
Mr. Muralidhar called for a clear commitment to accountability in any future peace framework. The report stresses that mechanisms must be established to investigate and penalize abuses from both sides. It also urges international bodies to enforce legal standards and protect civilians across all regions. “The trauma inflicted on Palestinians is profound,” he said, emphasizing the need for justice and transparency in addressing the systemic nature of the violence. The findings highlight the urgency of holding all parties responsible for their actions in the conflict.
Global implications and next steps
As the conflict continues, the report underscores the global impact of these human rights violations. Palestinians face systematic abuse by Israeli settlers and Hamas, with each group perpetuating harm through distinct but complementary methods. The commission recommends increased transparency in judicial processes and a focus on safeguarding civilian populations. These steps are critical to breaking the cycle of violence and fostering a more just resolution to the ongoing crisis. The report serves as a call to action for the international community to prioritize accountability and protect the rights of those caught in the crossfire.
