Reading time : 0 minutes
The Embassy of the State of Palestine in India expresses grave concern over the fate of thousands of Palestinian civilians detained by Israeli occupation forces during the recent genocidal war on Gaza, many of whom remain missing. Under the terms of Sharm El Sheikh agreement, Israel committed to returning the bodies of those it had arrested and withheld from Gaza; however, as of 16 October 2025, only 120 bodies have been returned, most in catastrophic condition, and only six have been identified.
Field observations and forensic examinations confirm that many victims were killed after detention, showing clear signs of hanging, restraints, close-range gunfire, fractures, burns, and severe physical torture, with some bodies crushed under military vehicles. These findings indicate a systematic pattern of execution and torture, constituting grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
Given the absence of effective mechanisms in Gaza to identify victims or investigate the circumstances of their detention and killing, the Embassy calls for the immediate deployment of independent forensic and medical missions, including DNA experts, coordinated with the United Nations and the ICRC, to identify and return the bodies to their families, preserve evidence, and provide mental support to the bereaved families.
The Embassy further urges the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the International Criminal Court to include these incidents in their ongoing investigations as war crimes and crimes against humanity. Such acts reflect a systematic policy of abuse aimed at inflicting maximum physical and psychological suffering, and nothing can justify these barbaric actions against civilians or detained combatants.
The Embassy of the State of Palestine calls upon the international community to ensure accountability, reject impunity, and uphold justice for the victims and their families.