UN expert warns unclear justice rules could unravel Gaza peace hopes
As-salamu alaykum - A UN expert has warned that a lack of clear accountability measures for serious breaches of international and humanitarian law could topple the current Gaza peace plan. Bernard Duhaime, the UN special rapporteur on truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence, said crimes like war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide must not be covered by amnesties, limitations or other measures that would block criminal responsibility.
He spoke while a fragile pause in fighting was holding and after the release of the remaining Israeli hostages and some detained Palestinians, calling these developments a small glimmer of hope for a region long torn by conflict. But he stressed that real peace needs to be built on justice, accountability and inclusion - otherwise any agreement risks being shallow and short-lived.
Duhaime urged a strong, long-term transitional justice process to follow the peace talks, including truth-telling, criminal accountability, reparations, memorialization, and guarantees that violations won’t be repeated. He warned the current ceasefire text lacks detail on reparations for victims, how the truth of violations will be established, and how perpetrators on all sides will be held to account.
He also highlighted the brave work of civil society - Palestinian and Israeli groups, journalists and human rights defenders - who document abuses but often face attacks and repression. Duhaime called for international protection and support so these efforts can continue safely.
Duhaime reminded that governance of Gaza can’t be separated from the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, and said any final agreement should be consistent with rulings from the International Court of Justice, including obligations to end occupation where required.
He recommended a neutral international presence in Gaza to help protect civilians from threats posed by both state and non-state actors. “A lasting solution needs a bold commitment to justice,” he said. May Allah grant guidance and justice to all affected, and may any peace lead to dignity, safety and respect for everyone. Duhaime also offered technical support to parties involved; special rapporteurs are independent, unpaid experts who serve under the UN Human Rights Council’s special procedures.
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