NHK has uncovered evidence of the destruction of at least 10 cemeteries in the Gaza Strip amid attacks by Israeli forces. Human rights activists say such damage violates international law.

NHK has analyzed satellite imagery from across Gaza and assessed the harm to local cemeteries.

The photos show 28 burial places across the enclave. The 10 disfigured sites are spread from north to south.

An aerial view shows that a gravesite near the southern city of Khan Younis had no damage as of December 6.

But two weeks later, graves had been cleared from a 2,500 square meter area and several vehicles parked on the site.

An Israeli military official told NHK that Hamas fighters operate from mosques, schools, hospitals and cemeteries.

Video released by Hamas has showed its fighters attacking from a graveyard.

Israel said its troops abide by related rules of international law and take every possible precaution when they operate.

But a human rights group says Israel systematically violates the sanctity of the dead and international humanitarian law.

A Middle East expert says Israel is motivated by nationalistic sentiment that gives no consideration to religious facilities.

Tateyama Ryoji, professor emeritus at Japan's National Defense Academy, said, "The Israeli military is determined to hit Palestinians thoroughly rather than fight against them with respect. The cemetery has become a target of such hatred. But I believe such actions will further expand hatred toward Israel and prolong the Gaza issue."

Tateyama also said Israel may be frustrated and impatient with US pressure to diminish its military operations in Gaza. Health officials there say over 21,000 have died since the attacks began.

Meanwhile, South Africa filed a lawsuit against Israel with the International Court of Justice on Friday saying the Middle Eastern country's actions constitute genocide.

Pretoria is also urging the court to order Israel to stop its military operations immediately as a tentative measure.

Israel's Foreign Ministry says South Africa's argument has no legal or factual grounds.

It called on the international court to dismiss the case.