Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of committing “acts of genocide” by deliberately obstructing access to water in Gaza. The organization’s 184-page report, released Thursday, claims that since Israel’s military offensive began in October 2023, it has systematically denied Palestinians in Gaza the clean water required for survival. HRW stated that Israel’s actions are intentionally causing death by denying adequate water to the population.
Lama Fakih, HRW’s Middle East director, stated that Israel’s actions amount to intentional killing through water deprivation. HRW conducted interviews with over 115 people and utilized satellite imagery for their investigation, identifying several key actions by Israel to block water access. These included the destruction of pipelines supplying drinking water, the cutting off of electricity to water pumps, the demolition of solar-powered water facilities, and preventing repairs or humanitarian aid from entering Gaza.
HRW’s report further asserts that Palestinians in Gaza have been receiving only two to nine liters of water daily, far below the 15 liters considered necessary for survival. This deprivation, the report argues, has contributed to the spread of diseases and death, qualifying as “acts of genocide” under the Genocide Convention of 1948.
In response, Israel has denied the allegations, calling the report “appalling lies” and insisting it has a right to defend itself following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack. While proving genocide before international courts requires demonstrating intent, HRW pointed to statements from some senior Israeli officials suggesting a desire to destroy Palestinians, which they argue makes water deprivation a genocidal act.
HRW has called on the international community to impose targeted sanctions, suspend arms transfers and military assistance, and reconsider political agreements with Israel to pressure compliance with provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in January. The ICJ’s order, following a case filed by South Africa, demands Israel ensure the provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance to avoid the accusation of genocide.
This report follows a similar one by Amnesty International earlier this month, which also concluded Israel’s actions could be considered genocide. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense chief, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the ongoing conflict. More than 45,000 Palestinians have died, with much of Gaza reduced to rubble.
