Geneva, Switzerland — Michael Lynk, former United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territory, has reaffirmed that Gaza remains legally occupied by Israel despite its withdrawal of settlers and troops in 2005.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Lynk explained that occupation is determined not merely by the physical presence of soldiers but by “effective control,” which Israel continues to exercise by regulating movement into and out of Gaza.
“International humanitarian law remains in force in Gaza,” Lynk emphasized. “While Israeli officials avoid the term ‘occupation,’ the global community recognizes Gaza as occupied territory, meaning Israel is bound by strict legal obligations.”
Lynk condemned Israel’s plans for forced displacement of Palestinians within Gaza, calling such actions “absolutely forbidden” under international law except in narrowly defined, temporary circumstances to protect civilians during active conflict.
He warned that rhetoric from Israel and the United States about “thinning out” Gaza’s population or removing it altogether could amount to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and possibly genocide if aimed at destroying a people in whole or in part.
“The consequences of such actions would be devastating and unlawful,” Lynk said, urging the international community to hold all parties accountable to prevent further atrocities.
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