New York [US], June 13: Palestinian armed groups and Israeli authorities have both committed war crimes and crimes against humanity during the attack on 7 October and the subsequent military operations, according to a new report by a UN independent human rights body.
This was among the conclusions listed in the report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, released on Wednesday.
"Amid months of losses and despair, retribution and atrocities, the only tangible result has been compounding the immense suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis, with civilians, yet again, bearing the brunt of decisions by those in power," the Commission said, stressing the impact on women and children.
The Commission emphasised that both the attack in Israel and Israel's subsequent military operation in Gaza should not be seen in isolation.
"The only way to stop the recurring cycles of violence, including aggression and retribution by both sides, is to ensure strict adherence to international law," it stressed.
Source: Emirates News Agency