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Independent investigation needed into possible war crimes in Israel-Gaza conflict says Human Rights chief

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay called for an independent investigation into the killing of civilians during the recent escalation of violence in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

"There seems to be a strong possibility that international humanitarian law has been violated, in a manner that could amount to war crimes," she said this morning during a special session at the UN Human Rights Council.

"Every one of these incidents must be properly and independently investigated," she added.

She further said:

"As we speak, the indiscriminate firing by Hamas and other armed groups of more than 2,900 rockets, as well as mortars, from Gaza continues to endanger the lives of civilians in Israel. I have repeatedly condemned such indiscriminate attacks in the past. I do so again today. I further emphasise that it is unacceptable to locate military assets in densely populated areas or to launch attacks from such areas. However, international law is clear: the actions of one party do not absolve the other party of the need to respect its obligations under international law.

Civilian homes are not legitimate targets unless they are being used for, or contribute to, military purposes at the time in question. In case of doubt, civilian homes are presumed not to be legitimate targets. Even where a home is identified as being used for military purposes, any attack must be proportionate, offer a definite military advantage in the prevailing circumstances at the time, and precautions must be taken. I unequivocally reiterate to all actors in this conflict that civilians must not be targeted. It is imperative that Israel, Hamas and all Palestinian armed groups strictly abide by applicable norms of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. This entails applying the principles of distinction between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military objectives; proportionality; and precautions in attack. Respect for the right to life of civilians, including children, should be a foremost consideration. Not abiding by these principles may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity."

See her full address here.

The Special Session took place as the US Secretary of State John Kerry arrived on an unscheduled visit to the Middle East, to meet with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas and the UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon, in order to make steps on a ceasefire between the two sides.

"We have certainly made some steps forward. There is still work to be done," Mr Kerry was quoted by Reuters as saying, after his arrival.

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