Retired Indian Judge Reports Continued War Crimes and Genocide in Palestine

Retired Indian judge Justice Srinivasan Muralidhar briefed the United Nations General Assembly last week on a new report by the International Commission of Inquiry concerning Israel and the Palestinian territories. Speaking as the chairperson of the commission, Justice Muralidhar stated that Israeli security forces continue to commit war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, even a year after the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement. This document marks the third submission by the commission since October 7, 2023, focusing primarily on killings and physical and mental harm caused by state actors.

Evidence and Findings

The report relies on medical records, satellite imagery, forensic analysis, witness testimony, and videos posted directly by Israeli soldiers. Despite official denials from Israel, the findings indicate that soldiers targeted Palestinian civilians, including infants, using artificial intelligence to identify and execute targets with impunity. The report also includes quotes from top Israeli officials regarding the killings. Justice Muralidhar noted that over 75,000 Palestinians have been killed in the territories since 2023, including 21,500 children and 11,000 women, while UN member-states take little or no action.

Recommendations and Reactions

The commission urges UN members to use all available means to stop the genocide, investigate and prosecute suspects, and set clear rules for using artificial intelligence in warfare. Previously, the committee called for halting military transfers to Israel, passing sanctions for child abuses, and cooperating with the International Criminal Court to enforce arrest warrants. The UN General Assembly cannot implement enforcement resolutions, and the UN Security Council remains deadlocked due to U.S. support for Israel. Justice Muralidhar could not present the report in person because the U.S. withheld his visa.

India's Stance

India supports Palestinian rights and sends humanitarian aid, but avoids actions that might hurt its ties with Israel. New Delhi has abstained from UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire or action against Israel while continuing to supply weapons, ammunition, ordnance, and drone parts. The Ministry of External Affairs has not directly criticized Israel or commented on the reports by the UN commission led by Justice Muralidhar and his predecessor, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Navanethem Pillay.

Context

International commissions of inquiry are independent bodies established by the United Nations to investigate serious violations of international humanitarian law. Their reports carry significant moral and legal weight in documenting abuses, though enforcing accountability often depends on the political will of major global powers and the consensus of the UN Security Council.