GENEVA, Switzerland — A United Nations inquiry has accused Israeli authorities and security forces of deliberately targeting Palestinian children during the conflict in Gaza, alleging actions that may amount to genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The findings were released by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

According to the report, children accounted for nearly 30 percent of the more than 67,000 reported deaths recorded during the conflict period examined by investigators. The commission stated that at least 20,000 Palestinian children were killed between October 2023 and October 2025, describing the scale of child casualties as unprecedented compared to previous Gaza conflicts.

The UN inquiry further alleged that Israeli forces continued to use heavy explosives and high-impact weapons in densely populated civilian areas despite mounting casualties among children. Investigators argued that the pattern of attacks and their impact on children contributed to evidence suggesting genocidal intent.

The report also highlighted severe humanitarian conditions facing children in Gaza, including shortages of food, medical care, clean water, and education services. UN agencies have repeatedly warned about the long-term physical and psychological effects of the conflict on Gaza's younger population.

Israel strongly rejected the findings, describing the report as biased and defamatory. Israeli officials maintained that the country's military operations are directed at militant groups and not civilians, while accusing Hamas of using civilian areas for military purposes.

The report is expected to intensify international debate over the conduct of the war and increase calls for accountability from the global community. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations continue to urge all parties to protect civilians, particularly children, and ensure access to essential aid.