A United Nations investigation into Israeli settler violence and arms transfers linked to the Gaza war is facing serious delays. The probe, expanded last year at Pakistan’s request, cannot move forward because of financial shortages, according to official documents.
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory was set up in May 2021 by the UN Human Rights Council. Its role is to gather evidence of possible international crimes. Such evidence can later support pre-trial investigations at courts like the International Criminal Court.
In 2024, the Human Rights Council approved Pakistan’s request to broaden the mandate. The commission was tasked with collecting more information on weapons transfers to Israel and on settler violence. But Navi Pillay, head of the inquiry, wrote to the council president on August 6, stating that the work cannot be completed due to a UN inquiry funding shortfall.
Pillay explained that the team lacks money to hire new staff. As a result, the commission has begun notifying sponsors that it will be unable to deliver its reports by March 2026. These reports were considered crucial for accountability efforts in the Gaza conflict.
The commission has faced criticism from Israel, which opposes its findings and accuses it of bias. The body has previously condemned Israeli military actions following the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023.
The funding problem reflects a wider financial crisis at the United Nations. The U.S., the largest donor, owes around $1.5 billion in unpaid fees. Overall, 12 of the 47 council members have yet to pay their dues. To cope with the liquidity crunch, the UN has announced plans to cut its budget by 20%.
According to Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al Nashif, investigations are now operating at nearly half their usual staffing levels. She warned that without funds, some mandated work may not be possible.
This shortfall raises concerns about the UN’s ability to deliver justice in global conflicts, from Gaza to Congo, where similar investigations have already stalled.
For more on Pakistan’s efforts, read about its 7-point Gaza peace plan.
