UN report alleges deliberate targeting of Gaza children, sparks global outcry

A United Nations investigative report on the war in Gaza has triggered strong international reactions after alleging that Palestinian children were deliberately targeted during Israeli military operations, 24NewsHD TV reported on Thursday. 

According to the report by the UN's independent international commission of inquiry, multiple pieces of evidence indicated that Palestinian children may have been intentionally targeted in attacks that could amount to war crimes and, potentially, acts of genocide.

The report cited several incidents involving child casualties.

In one case, a 10-day-old infant was reportedly shot while being breastfed by his mother.

The report also highlighted the case of a four-year-old girl who was left permanently disabled after suffering a gunshot wound to the head while inside a tent shelter.

The incident was also referenced by Barry Andrews.

Based on collected testimony, documents, and other evidence, the commission stated that Israeli quadcopter drones were allegedly used to target civilians with a high degree of precision.

 Witnesses interviewed during the investigation claimed that drones frequently hovered over streets and refugee camps and opened fire on people who appeared to be moving.

The findings prompted strong reactions from around the world. Iranian analyst Seyed Mohammad Marandi said the report would challenge those who had previously rejected allegations of genocide in Gaza.

Reacting to the report, Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep concern and shock over the commission's findings.

He said the report's conclusions regarding the alleged deliberate targeting of Palestinian children had resulted in immense human suffering and the loss of innocent lives.

President Zardari stated that reports of more than 20,000 children being killed represent "a dark stain on the collective conscience of humanity."

He reiterated Pakistan's condemnation of the alleged atrocities and called for immediate accountability.

The president urged the international community, particularly influential countries, to ensure effective accountability and take meaningful measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Former Pakistani foreign minister Hina Rabbani Khar described the document as one of the most significant and eye-opening reports ever produced by the United Nations on the situation in Gaza.

Israel has rejected the allegations contained in the report, describing it as biased, unfounded, and lacking credibility.

The report is likely to intensify international debate over the humanitarian consequences of the Gaza conflict and increase pressure for further investigations into alleged violations of international law.