The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has issued a statement urging Israeli security forces to cease their active participation in and support for settler attacks on Palestinians. This call comes in the wake of a series of violent incidents in the West Bank, triggered by the killing of a 14-year-old Israeli boy in what authorities describe as a militant attack.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, seven Palestinians have lost their lives due to actions by Israeli forces or settlers since the attacks commenced last Friday, with an additional 75 individuals sustaining injuries. Despite Israeli authorities advising against vigilante actions as tensions escalate, rights groups have long accused Israeli forces of either turning a blind eye to settler attacks or being complicit in them.
The U.N. statement highlights that Palestinians have faced numerous assaults by hundreds of Israeli settlers, often with the backing or presence of Israeli Security Forces. These attacks have resulted in fatalities, injuries, and the destruction of numerous homes, buildings, and vehicles.
As the occupying power in the West Bank, Israel is called upon to take all necessary measures to restore and maintain public order and safety in the region, as per the U.N. statement. The West Bank, home to over 500,000 Jewish settlers and around 3 million Palestinians, is a focal point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Death Toll in Gaza Climbs
In Gaza, the Health Ministry reports that 46 individuals killed in Israeli strikes have been brought to local hospitals in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll from the Israel-Hamas conflict to at least 33,843. The ministry notes that a significant number of those killed are women and children.
Israel attributes civilian casualties to Hamas, citing the group's presence in densely populated areas. The military claims to have eliminated over 13,000 militants without providing specific evidence.
Following the conclusion of its offensive in Khan Younis, Israel has withdrawn additional forces from Gaza but remains prepared to invade Rafah, where a large portion of Gaza's population seeks refuge. The conflict erupted when Hamas launched a major attack into southern Israel, resulting in significant casualties and hostage-taking.
The ongoing violence underscores the urgent need for a de-escalation of tensions and a renewed focus on achieving lasting peace in the region.
