A recent investigation has uncovered disturbing evidence that the Israeli military has disturbed and destroyed multiple cemeteries in its ground offensive in Gaza. At least 16 cemeteries have been affected, with gravestones ruined, soil upturned, and in some instances, bodies unearthed. Satellite imagery and videos obtained during the investigation have revealed the extent of the damage.
In one case, the Israeli military claimed they were searching for the remains of Israeli hostages as they destroyed a cemetery in Khan Younis. However, in many other instances, there appears to be no clear reason for the destruction witnessed at these cemeteries.
The analysis conducted found that since the start of the ground offensive, a total of 16 cemeteries in areas where the Israeli military has operated have been damaged or destroyed. The impact can be seen in the desecration of graveyards like the one in Jabalia, where gravestones have been destroyed, soil has been upturned, and treadmarks from military vehicles mar the landscape.
International experts on conflict and law state that destroying graveyards violates international law, except under very limited circumstances. Cemeteries are considered civilian objects and are protected from intentional attack. They can only be targeted if they become military objectives, which is not the case for most of the affected cemeteries.
In some instances, the Israeli military has transformed cemeteries into military outposts, parking armored vehicles behind newly constructed berms. Bulldozing machinery has been used to progressively damage and destroy cemeteries, as witnessed in a two weeks period in December near Khan Yunis.
Eyewitnesses embedded with Israeli forces have documented firsthand the bulldozing of graveyards, including instances where military vehicles have driven through cemeteries, such as the one in al-Bureij. In another distressing occurrence, tombs were opened, and bodies were removed from a cemetery in Khan Younis as part of the military's search for Israeli hostages.
The Israeli military spokesperson acknowledged the exhumation of bodies in the Khan Younis cemetery but could not explain the destruction witnessed at the other 16 identified cemeteries. While denying any policy to create military posts out of graveyards, the spokesperson did provide a photograph claiming to show a Hamas rocket launcher at a cemetery, but its authenticity could not be independently verified.
The destruction of cemeteries by the Israeli military has provoked international attention and criticism. South Africa has cited these actions as evidence in its case, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Experts argue that cemetery destruction represents a profound disrespect towards the spiritual lives, cultural property, and heritage of the Palestinian people, suggesting an animus against the enemy.
These incidents go beyond isolated acts, raising concerns about a more systemic issue within the Israeli military's actions in Gaza. As investigations continue, it is evident that the dignity of the dead has been compromised and that the destruction of cemeteries further exacerbates tensions in the region.
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