Fact Check: Hamas doesn't kill children

Fact Check: "Hamas doesn't kill children"

What We Know

The claim that "Hamas doesn't kill children" is contradicted by multiple credible sources. According to a report from the United Nations, both Hamas and Israeli forces have been implicated in the killing and maiming of children during the ongoing conflict. The UN's annual report on children in armed conflict noted a 155% increase in grave violations against children, including killings and injuries, attributed to both parties involved in the conflict (BBC).

Specifically, as of January 2024, at least 10,000 children in Gaza had been killed due to the violence, with additional reports indicating that 36 children were killed during Hamas's initial attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 (PMC). Furthermore, the UN Commission of Inquiry has documented evidence of war crimes committed by both sides, including the killing and abduction of children (PMC).

Analysis

The assertion that Hamas does not kill children fails to align with the documented evidence of child fatalities resulting from their actions. The UN report explicitly states that both Hamas and Israeli forces have contributed to the deaths of children, marking a significant increase in such incidents during the recent escalation of violence (BBC).

Moreover, the credibility of the sources reporting these events is high. The UN is a recognized international authority on human rights and humanitarian issues, and its reports are based on verified data collected from various credible organizations and eyewitness accounts. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the severe impact of the conflict on children, stating that they "bore the brunt of multiplying and escalating crises" (BBC).

While some narratives may attempt to downplay the involvement of Hamas in child casualties, the overwhelming evidence presented in reports from reputable organizations like the UN and Human Rights Watch indicates otherwise. The UN's list of offenders for violating children's rights includes Hamas, highlighting their role in the killing and abduction of children (BBC).

Conclusion

The claim that "Hamas doesn't kill children" is False. Multiple credible sources, including the United Nations and various humanitarian organizations, have documented instances of child fatalities resulting from actions taken by Hamas. The evidence clearly shows that children have been victims of violence in this conflict, contradicting the claim in question.