Israel’s removal of Gaza rubble risk to war crimes evidence: UN

A United Nations expert has expressed concern that the Israeli clearance of rubble in Gaza could potentially destroy crucial evidence of "atrocity crimes" and hinder the recovery of human remains. Francesca Albanese, the UN expert on the Palestinian territories, emphasized that Palestinians should be involved in any plans to remove waste.

She stated that the debris in devastated Gaza is not just construction waste but also part of a crime scene, a graveyard, and a record of the brutal bombing campaign that lasted for two years. Albanese urged for evidence collection and human remains identification before proceeding with the clearance. She highlighted that multiple sources have confirmed Israeli companies' involvement in the clearance process, though she did not disclose the sources.

Israel's Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister's Office, and military declined to comment. Albanese has been a vocal critic of Israel's military actions in Gaza, often facing criticism and sanctions from various countries. The conflict between Israel and Hamas led to the deaths of around 1,200 people in Israel and 251 taken hostage. Over 73,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's military campaign, according to Gaza health authorities.

Palestinian authorities estimate that more than 8,000 people remain buried in the wreckage. Hamas appreciated Albanese's warning, urging that the rubble be removed in a manner that ensures the recovery of missing persons' remains and the preservation of evidence.