On July 29, 2010, the Human Rights Committee (HRC) of the Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights released a periodic report on steps taken by Israel to implement the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). In its report, the committee expressed its concern regarding a number of measures employed by Israel in its ongoing fight against terrorism. These include: administrative detention, the Gaza blockade, Operation Cast Lead, targeted killings, and the demolition of houses.
The Human Rights Committee also related to Israeli legislation that is designed to address terrorist threats but which may not be compatible with Israel's obligations under the Covenant. This includes existing legislation (e.g. the ban on family reunification and the prevention of security prisoners from meeting with their lawyers), and legislation in the making (e.g. the comprehensive counter-terrorism legislation that is currently being formulated).
On Sunday, November 28, 2010, IDI hosted a roundtable discussion on the role of human rights law in the fight against terror and on the possible contribution of international human rights organizations to the determination of proper standards. This closed session was attended by government officials, activists from non-profit organizations, academicians, and researchers from IDI.