Why it matters:
The scale and systematic nature of the destruction in Gaza are not only humanitarian catastrophes but also potential violations of international law. The International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice are actively investigating Israeli officials for war crimes and genocide, putting global legal pressure on Israel.
The big picture:
Since the start of Israeli brutal attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, Israel’s assault on Gaza has gone far beyond battlefield combat. The offensive has targeted civilian infrastructure, religious sites, aid centers, and even cemeteries, while blocking humanitarian relief and triggering massive public health crises. Nearly 53,000 people, mostly women and children, have been confirmed killed.
What it’s saying:
In a statement published Thursday, Gaza's government media office laid out the full scope of Israel’s assault: "Israel has carried out over 12,000 massacres... and erased 2,200 families from Gaza’s civil registries. More than 10,000 people remain under rubble, their fate unknown."
Key points:
- 12,000 massacres recorded; 2,200 families completely wiped out.
- 2,300 bodies stolen from graves; 7 mass graves created in hospitals.
- 2.1 million infectious disease cases, including over 71,000 hepatitis infections.
- 828 mosques destroyed, 19 cemeteries targeted, 66 aid facilities bombed.
- 37,400 aid/fuel trucks blocked at borders since crossings were sealed in the framework of organized starvation as a war tool.
- ICC arrest warrants issued for Netanyahu and Gallant; ICJ genocide case underway.
Go deeper:
This data-backed account of destruction emerges as Israel faces mounting legal and diplomatic isolation. Human rights groups and international legal bodies are now scrutinizing not only the scale of the military operation but its apparent intent to permanently dismantle Palestinian life in Gaza. With war crime investigations underway, the Gaza toll may soon carry consequences beyond the battlefield.
Hossein Vaez
