^{12 May 2025}

A new report from the UN’s Independent Commission accuses Israeli forces of the targeted killing of civilians and the systematic destruction of over 90% of Gaza’s schools and universities and more than 50% of its cultural and religious buildings.

“We are seeing more and more signs that Israel is carrying out a systematic campaign to eliminate Palestinian life in Gaza,” says Navi Pillay, chair of the UN commission that produced the report.

According to the report, the attacks amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity:

“The Commission concludes that Israeli forces have committed war crimes, including targeted attacks on civilians and deliberate killings,” the report states.

The report further establishes that Israel’s systematic violations collectively constitute the intentional extermination of the Palestinian population:

“The Commission finds that Israeli forces have committed the crime against humanity of extermination,” the report states.

‍

Systematic destruction of schools and educational institutions

The report documents how Israeli attacks have hit schools that also serve as emergency shelters for civilians.

The Commission has found several instances of intentional arson and controlled demolitions of educational facilities.

According to the report, Israeli soldiers recorded and shared videos mocking Palestinian education before destroying the buildings.

Several educational institutions were also seized and used as military bases, including part of Al-Azhar University, which was converted into a synagogue for the troops.

“Children in Gaza have lost their childhood. Without access to education, they are forced to worry about survival amid attacks, insecurity, hunger, and inhumane living conditions,” says Commission Chair Navi Pillay.

Deliberate destruction of religious and cultural sites

The report also notes that over half of Gaza’s religious and cultural sites have been damaged or destroyed.

These buildings, which include mosques, churches, and museums, were not being used for military purposes at the time of the attacks, according to the Commission.

“The attacks have deeply impacted cultural heritage and religious practices,” says Navi Pillay.

In the West Bank and East Jerusalem, Israeli authorities have restricted Palestinian access to holy sites such as Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount, while increasing access for Jewish visitors.

The Commission emphasizes that these measures occur within the context of an illegal occupation and are eroding Palestinians’ historical connection to the area.

‍

Suppression of education and activism

The report also highlights how Israeli military operations, settler violence, and demolitions in the West Bank have crippled the education system for over 800,000 Palestinian students.

Palestinian students and teachers face daily harassment and threats to their safety, and according to the report, Israel has failed to meet its obligation to prevent or prosecute abuses.

Within Israel’s borders, educators and students expressing solidarity with Gaza have faced harassment, suspensions, and arrests. Female activists and students are particularly targeted, the Commission writes.

UN to Israel: Stop immediately

The UN Commission urges Israel to immediately stop attacks on civilian areas, buildings and institutions and to comply with the orders of the International Court of Justice.

The Commission also calls for an end to settlement activities and the military use of civilian buildings.

The report will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council on June 17, 2025.

‍

‍