Geiselbefreiung im Gaza-Streifen: UN-Fachleute verurteilen israelische Methoden

Israel faces international scrutiny following a recent military operation in Gaza, where four hostages were freed from Hamas. Independent UN experts have described Israel’s methods during the mission as „deceptive“ and „disgusting.“ The experts criticized the use of disguises, including posing as displaced persons and humanitarian aid workers, to reach the site of the hostage rescue. Such tactics are deemed as violations of international law and constitute war crimes.

The operation resulted in casualties, with 274 Palestinians killed and nearly 700 injured. Survivors recounted horrific scenes of carnage, with reports of bodies and body parts strewn across the area. While acknowledging the safe return of the Israeli hostages, human rights advocates condemned Israel’s excessive use of force and the devastating impact on civilians in the Nuseirat refugee camp.

The experts condemned Israel’s use of civilian camouflage as deceitful, exposing genuine humanitarian workers to increased risks in conflict zones. The statement was endorsed by various UN observers, including those monitoring Palestinian territories, the right to health, and racism. In response, the Israeli military refuted allegations that its forces infiltrated the area disguised in humanitarian aid vehicles or through a makeshift goods delivery point off the Gaza coast.

Meanwhile, one of the freed hostages, Andrey Kozlov, called for further demonstrations in support of others still held in Gaza. Kozlov, speaking from an Israeli hospital after his release, urged the public to join protests demanding the release of remaining captives. Such demonstrations are a common sight in Tel Aviv on Saturdays, with participants advocating for the government to take stronger action to secure the release of all hostages still held in the Gaza Strip.