3/4/2025

12/2025

Statement by the ICHR on the Escalation of Lawlessness

 and Vigilante Crimes in Gaza

As the Israeli occupation continues its genocide crimes, prevents aid from entering for over a month, and exacerbates the food crisis in Gaza—now reaching famine levels—while directly targeting the rule of law system and civil police officers, the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) is deeply concerned about the increasing lawlessness and vigilantism crimes, which threaten the fragile social fabric and undermine what remains of citizens' sense of security.

The crime that took place on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Deir al-Balah, in which 22-year-old Abdul Rahman Abu Ubaid (Abu Samra) was killed and others were injured while waiting in line to buy flour, followed by the retaliatory killing of police officer Ibrahim Sheldan, marks a dangerous turning point in the rise of such incidents. These crimes reflect the absence of deterrence, fair accountability, and public trust in the ability of existing institutions to enforce law and order. This is not an isolated event; repeated brawls and extrajudicial killings in Gaza have become a serious phenomenon that necessitates a comprehensive review of intervention mechanisms and law enforcement procedures.

The ICHR has previously warned against attacks on citizens outside the framework of the law, without fair trials, and adherence to legal provisions, as such practices negatively impact societal peace.

Accordingly, the ICHR emphasizes the following:

1.    The Ministry of Interior must adhere to proper firearm use standards and act with the highest level of responsibility in maintaining security. Citizens now need justice and the rule of law more than ever, and they must feel that the law is their protector. 

2.    The Public Prosecution must conduct serious investigations into all incidents and hold those responsible for crimes and actions threatening social peace accountable.
3.    Community leaders, mediators, and social influencers must take national responsibility in de-escalating tensions, preventing further violence, and resolving disputes through peaceful means that protect all parties' rights.
4.    Warning against the collapse of public trust in law and order, which could lead to further chaos and social violence at a time when Gaza cannot afford any additional threats to civilian life and safety.
5.    The ICHR urges the media, bloggers, and activists to intensify efforts in promoting civil peace, tolerance, and Palestinian unity.