The United Nations Office for Human Rights strongly called on Tuesday for an independent and thorough investigation into the deaths that occurred in two Gaza hospitals – which have now been completely destroyed – that were under siege by the Israeli army and where mass graves were discovered.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk emphasized the need for international investigators to be involved in the investigation, given the prevailing culture of impunity. He expressed his horror at the devastation of the Al Naser hospital complexes in southern Gaza and Al Shifa in the north.

Under international humanitarian law, hospitals are entitled to special protection. The deliberate killing of civilians, detainees, and other individuals who are hors de combat is a war crime,” he stressed.

According to information provided by the Gaza authorities to the Human Rights Office, the first hospital saw the recovery of 283 bodies, of which 42 have been identified. These victims were reportedly buried at a certain depth in an area covered by debris.

“Among the deceased are elderly individuals, women, and children, and some were found with their hands tied,” said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN human rights agency.

In the case of Al Shifa hospital, reports indicate that thirty bodies of Palestinians were discovered buried in two graves that were dug in courtyards adjacent to the emergency building and dialysis building, respectively.

“The Israeli defense forces have claimed to have killed 200 Palestinians during their operation at Al Shifa hospital, but there are reports suggesting that this figure could be an underestimate,” stated the spokesperson.