Leading Genocide Scholars Declare Israeli Actions in Gaza as Genocide
Leading genocide scholars and organizations, including the IAGS, have overwhelmingly declared Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide, citing extensive Palestinian casualties and destruction, while Israel denies the accusations.
Leading genocide scholars group: Israeli action in Gaza is genocide
New York Daily News
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Overview
- Leading genocide scholars and organizations, including the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS), have overwhelmingly voted to declare Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide.
- The declaration is based on the 1948 convention's legal definition of genocide, citing over 63,000 Palestinian deaths, widespread displacement, and extensive destruction since October 2023.
- UN-backed monitors confirm famine in Gaza due to Israel's blockade and bombing campaign, intensifying concerns over a malnutrition crisis and supporting genocide accusations.
- Israel vehemently denies these accusations, labeling them an antisemitic "blood libel," and disputes casualty figures without providing its own data.
- The international community is urged to take urgent action to stop the alleged genocide and hold Israeli leaders accountable, with a case against Israel at the U.N.'s highest court.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally by presenting the International Association of Genocide Scholars' determination alongside Israel's vehement denials and counter-arguments. They provide comprehensive context, including legal definitions, historical background, and various international and local perspectives, allowing readers to form their own conclusions based on a balanced presentation of facts and claims.
"The determination by the International Association of Genocide Scholars — which has around 500 members worldwide, including a number of Holocaust experts — could serve to further isolate Israel in global public opinion and adds to a growing chorus of organizations that have used the term for Israel’s actions in Gaza."
Associated PressArticles (5)
FAQ
The International Association of Genocide Scholars based their declaration on Article II of the 1948 United Nations Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, which defines genocide as acts committed with intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, in whole or in part.
The evidence cited includes over 63,000 Palestinian deaths, widespread displacement of nearly all 2.3 million people in Gaza, destruction of over 90% of housing infrastructure, starvation and deprivation of essentials due to blockade, systematic destruction of civilian infrastructure, and attacks on civilians including children.
Israel has vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them an antisemitic "blood libel," disputing casualty figures, and denying that its actions in Gaza amount to genocide. Israel is also contesting a related case at the International Court of Justice.
They have called for Israel to immediately cease all acts constituting genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity including attacks on civilians, deprivation of humanitarian aid, and forced displacement. They urge compliance with International Court of Justice provisional orders, cooperation with the International Criminal Court, and a process of repair and transitional justice to restore democracy, dignity, and security for all in Gaza.
The international community has been urged to take urgent action to stop the alleged genocide, hold Israeli leaders accountable, cooperate with international legal mechanisms, and ensure respect for international law including the Genocide Convention and Arms Trade Treaty.
History
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