HRW: Gaza conflict's heinous crimes must not go unpunished despite ceasefire deal

Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Thursday (16 January) demanded accountability for the "heinous crimes" committed during and after the deadly conflict that began on 7 October 2023 between Israel and Hamas. The call came after the announcement of a ceasefire deal in the ongoing violence. HRW Executive Director Tirana Hassan, speaking at the launch of the organisation's annual report, stressed that while the ceasefire—agreed upon by Israeli officials and Hamas on 15 January—would provide relief for millions displaced in Gaza, the grave crimes committed should not go unpunished. "The heinous crimes committed on and since 7 October 2023 must be addressed," said Hassan, referring to both Israel’s and Hamas’s actions during the conflict.

HRW Report Accuses Israeli Military of "Crimes Against Humanity" and Possible "Genocide" in Gaza

The report highlights Israel's conduct in Gaza, accusing the Israeli military of committing "crimes against humanity" and potentially "genocide." The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza, displacing 1.9 million people—around 90 percent of Gaza's population—according to United Nations estimates. The UN also reported that nearly 345,000 people in Gaza are facing "catastrophic levels" of food insecurity. Hassan stressed the importance of ensuring continued humanitarian access, including rebuilding Gaza’s water and health systems that were ravaged during the conflict. "Moving forward, we need Israel to allow humanitarian materials into Gaza to rebuild vital infrastructure," Hassan added. "This conflict has decimated Gaza’s infrastructure, and humanitarian relief is crucial to aid in recovery." Despite the ceasefire deal brokered by Qatar and the United States, Israeli airstrikes continue as the country accuses Hamas of violating parts of the agreement. The war, which escalated following a Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, has claimed at least 46,788 lives in Gaza, most of them civilians. The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, deemed reliable by the UN, provides this grim figure. Meanwhile, Israel has lost 1,210 civilians in the initial Hamas assault, according to Israeli figures. The ceasefire agreement, scheduled to begin on 19 January, is still awaiting approval from Israel’s cabinet.

HRW Emphasises that Ceasefire Must Not Distract from Pursuit of Justice for Atrocities Committed

Although this may bring temporary respite, HRW believes the underlying issues, including accountability for the crimes committed, must remain the focus. HRW’s 2025 report also touches upon broader global concerns, including the abuse of political opponents, unlawful killings, and repression in over 100 countries. Specifically, the group criticizes continued arms sales to Israel by countries like the US, UK, and Germany, despite evidence of violations of international law by the Israeli military. In addition, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, as well as for Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif, for crimes committed during the war. The report highlights how Israel’s long-standing repression of Palestinians has worsened, and international justice opportunities are emerging, with an eye on potential accountability for those responsible for these atrocities. HRW also urges countries to suspend arms transfers to Israel and enforce the International Court of Justice's advisory opinions on the unlawful nature of Israeli settlements.