Israel has officially requested the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to disband the special commission investigating alleged human rights abuses in Israel and Palestinian regions. The country accuses this commission of showing unfair treatment toward Israel.

Ambassador Calls Commission Biased

Daniel Meron, Israel’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva, wrote a letter making this demand. In the letter, seen by Reuters, he said that the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Israel, has shown clear bias. According to him, the commission’s investigations and reports are not neutral.

Commission Criticised for Condemning Israel’s Actions

Since the war began in Gaza after Hamas’s attacks on October 7, 2023, the commission has repeatedly criticised Israel’s military actions. Israel has rejected these reports, claiming the commission is prejudiced and applies double standards. As the letter stated, “The Commission of Inquiry, both in its mandate and in the work of its members, constitutes nothing less than a manifestation of the institutional discrimination against Israel in the Human Rights Council.”

Commission’s Role Explained

The UN set up the commission in May 2021, during earlier fighting between Israel and Hamas. Its main job is to collect and keep evidence that could later be used in international courts, including the International Criminal Court.

Council’s Response

Pascal Sim, the Council’s spokesperson, confirmed receiving the letter, which was addressed to Council President Jurg Lauber. However, Sim pointed out that Lauber does not have the power to shut down the commission. “That would be up to the Council’s 47 members,” Sim explained.

Earlier Accusations Angered Israel

In March, the same commission accused Israel of committing “genocidal acts” against Palestinians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly rejected this report, calling it biased and antisemitic.

Israel Cut Ties with Human Rights Council

Back in February, Israel officially withdrew from cooperating with the Human Rights Council, showing its dissatisfaction with how the council treats the country.