UN Experts Demand Action Against Enforced Disappearances in Gaza

Human rights experts from the United Nations condemned the **enforced disappearances** of Palestinian civilians at aid distribution sites on **August 31, 2023**. The experts called on Israeli authorities to cease their targeting of the vulnerable Palestinian population, particularly those in desperate need of food assistance.

Reports received by the UN indicate that several individuals, including a child, have been forcibly disappeared while visiting food aid distribution centers operated by the **Gaza Humanitarian Foundation** (GHF). The group of seven experts emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues, stating that such enforced disappearances will deter Palestinians from seeking essential food supplies, further escalating the risk of starvation.

Concerns Over Atrocities and Human Rights Violations

The experts expressed grave concern over the situation, stating, “Reports of enforced disappearances targeting starving civilians seeking their basic right to food is not only shocking but amounts to torture.” They highlighted the dire circumstances faced by the Palestinian population, particularly during this critical time of man-made starvation. Aid distribution points, already fraught with dangers, now pose additional risks of forced disappearances.

The GHF, a non-governmental organization backed by both Israeli and US support, aims to provide humanitarian assistance in Gaza. Yet, the reality surrounding these crowded facilities is perilous. Gunfire and attacks occur regularly, leading to numerous casualties. From **May 27 to July 31**, the **UN Human Rights Office** (OHCHR) reported **859 Palestinian deaths** in the vicinity of GHF sites, with the majority attributed to the **Israeli Defense Forces** (IDF).

The organization **Defense for Children International – Palestine** (DCIP) has documented the enforced disappearances of five Palestinian boys seeking aid. Ayed Abu Eqtaish, the accountability program director at DCIP, stated, “Israeli forces are shooting, detaining, and disappearing Palestinian children seeking aid in Gaza. These children have had no contact with the outside world.” The IDF has not provided any information regarding the whereabouts of the disappeared individuals.

International Law and Humanitarian Crisis

The GHF’s spokesman, Chapin Fay, denied claims of casualties around the organization’s sites, further complicating the narrative surrounding the aid distribution efforts. A recent report from the **Integrated Food Security Phase Classification** (IPC) confirms that Gaza is currently experiencing a man-made famine. The IPC stated that the deliveries made by the GHF “do not meet the criteria to be classified as humanitarian assistance.”

Both enforced disappearances and the intentional starvation of civilians are serious violations of international law. Such actions contravene the **Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court**, which prohibits these acts and may classify them as crimes against humanity or war crimes.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza highlights the urgent need for accountability and action to protect vulnerable populations seeking basic necessities. The international community is urged to take a stand against these violations and ensure that aid reaches those in critical need.