The United Nations’ top human rights official, Volker Türk, has delivered one of the strongest international rebukes yet of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, condemning what he described as the “mass killing” of Palestinian civilians and the systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid.
Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Monday, Türk said the scale of destruction and civilian casualties in Gaza had reached “shocking and indefensible levels.” He warned that Israel’s actions may constitute serious violations of international law, adding that mounting evidence could lead to proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
“The images and testimonies we receive daily show entire families wiped out, hospitals reduced to rubble, and humanitarian workers killed while trying to save lives,” Türk told delegates. “The deliberate blocking of aid to a population facing famine is not only morally abhorrent—it may amount to the crime of starvation as a method of warfare.”
According to UN estimates, tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed since the escalation of the conflict, with women and children making up a large share of the casualties. More than 80 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced, many forced to flee multiple times as Israeli strikes target residential areas, infrastructure, and refugee camps.
Israel has defended its operations, arguing that it is targeting Hamas militants and military infrastructure embedded within civilian areas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said that Israel is acting in self-defense and has accused Hamas of using civilians as “human shields.” Israeli officials dismissed Türk’s remarks as biased and politically motivated.
The condemnation comes at a time of deepening humanitarian crisis. Aid convoys attempting to enter Gaza have frequently been turned back or delayed, with UN relief agencies reporting severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. International organizations warn that famine and disease are imminent if access is not urgently restored.
Reactions from world leaders have been divided. Several Western governments expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself, while also urging restraint to minimize civilian harm. Meanwhile, countries across the Global South and in the Arab world have echoed Türk’s criticism, demanding an immediate ceasefire and full humanitarian access.
As diplomatic pressure mounts, the possibility of legal action against Israel is drawing increasing attention. While proceedings at the International Court of Justice are slow-moving, human rights advocates say the UN chief’s warning underscores the growing consensus that accountability will be sought for atrocities committed during the conflict.
For the people of Gaza, however, the focus remains survival. With neighborhoods flattened, hospitals overwhelmed, and aid blocked, civilians are bearing the brunt of a war that has now entered one of its deadliest phases.