A report by Amnesty International says Israel committed war crimes during its offensive in the Gaza Strip at the turn of the year. The human rights organisation says the Israeli army used excessive violence and indiscriminately destroyed homes and offices.

The organisation also calls rocket attacks by Hamas on Israel war crimes, as Hamas knowingly put civilian lives in danger. According to the report, 1400 Palestinians were killed in the Israeli offensive, which lasted 22 days. Israel puts this figure at 1166, including 300 civilians.

The United Nations is carrying out its own investigation into war. Israel has refused to cooperate as it says the committee is biased.

Photo: ANP/EPA - Devastation in Gaza City