UN expert warns Gaza rubble removal could destroy evidence of alleged war crimes

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese warned that clearing Gaza’s estimated 61 million tonnes of rubble could destroy evidence of alleged war crimes and prevent the recovery and identification of human remains. She said authorities should document sites and recover remains before large-scale removal begins, while Palestinians should lead decisions about debris clearance. Albanese said states and companies involved could face international criminal responsibility if evidence is destroyed, citing an International Court of Justice order requiring Israel to preserve evidence related to allegations under the Genocide Convention. Palestinian authorities estimate that more than 8,000 people remain buried, while Gaza’s civil defense service says recovery could take about 90 days with proper equipment but years without it. Israel has not publicly responded to the allegations in these reports.