A United Nations Commission of Inquiry, led by former High Court Chief Justice S. Muralidhar, has reported that Israeli forces allegedly targeted Palestinian children during the recent Gaza conflict. This assertion stems from a comprehensive report submitted to the UN Human Rights Council, which details a tragic toll of thousands of child deaths and injuries. According to Muralidhar, from October 7, 2023, to October 7, 2025, more than 20,000 children were killed, while over 44,000 sustained injuries in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

The 100-page report, released on June 23, substantiates claims of deliberate attacks on minors, asserting that the number of casualties does not simply represent collateral damage inherent in military operations. Muralidhar emphasised that the scale of these deaths suggests a targeted approach aimed at children, with Israeli forces reportedly employing high-yield munitions in densely populated areas along with precision weaponry including drones and sniper rifles.

Muralidhar highlighted testimonies gathered from medical professionals and witnesses, alongside videos reviewed by the commission, pointing to a disturbing trend where a significant number of injured children arrived at medical facilities with gunshot wounds to critical areas such as the head and neck. He noted the prevalence of single-shot wounds inflicted for maximum damage, illustrating the severity of the situation.

Destruction of Civilian Infrastructure

The report also details catastrophic damage to civilian infrastructure vital for children, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages. According to the findings, ninety-seven per cent of schools in Gaza have been completely destroyed, leaving many children without formal education for over three years. The trauma extends beyond just physical injuries, as medical professionals reported treating numerous children who have lost entire families during the conflict.

Muralidhar mentioned that a term, “Wounded Child with No Surviving Family,” has been coined by medical workers to categorise cases where children are left without their relatives. The document further sheds light on allegations of mistreatment in detention facilities, supported by accounts from children, doctors, and verified materials reviewed by commission researchers.

The commission gathered significant evidence pointing toward the torture of minors, claiming that children have been deliberately harmed or killed by Israeli defence forces and sometimes by settlers. While acknowledging these findings, Muralidhar also affirmed that they have documented abuses committed by Palestinian armed groups against children, illustrating a complex situation where multiple parties share responsibility.

Call for International Accountability

Muralidhar stressed the necessity for global action beyond mere expressions of concern regarding the violence in the region. He stated that past expressions of outrage were no longer sufficient and urged countries with military, trade, or diplomatic connections to Israel to investigate individuals allegedly involved in the reported abuses. He advocated for the invocation of universal jurisdiction principles to ensure accountability.

The commission’s findings, presented to the UN Human Rights Council, come amidst Israel’s refusal to cooperate with the inquiry. Muralidhar expressed that the commission remains open to receiving any evidence from Israeli authorities, highlighting an ongoing dialogue that could still inform future investigations.

As the report’s publication prompts further scrutiny, Muralidhar referred to ongoing proceedings before international judicial bodies, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. He called upon member states to assess the evidence compiled by the commission and decide on appropriate measures moving forward. “The ball is in the court of the international community,” he concluded, urging decisive action based on the available evidence.

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