Amnesty International has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, drawing widespread condemnation from the country. The report, which spans 296 pages, claims that Israel committed and is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
The allegations come as the International Court of Justice reviews similar accusations by South Africa. Genocide is a difficult crime to prove under international law, requiring demonstration of intent to destroy a group. Lawyers say Israeli leaders’ denials of such intent are persistent.
In response, the Israel chapter of Amnesty International protested the findings, saying “the majority” of local members do not hold that the claim against Israel is sufficiently substantiated. However, they also expressed concern about “serious crimes” being committed in Gaza and called for an immediate end to killing and destruction.
The report cites acts by Israel between October 2023 and July 2024, including repeated direct attacks on civilians and restrictions on humanitarian aid. Israeli officials blame Hamas and the UN for the situation, not Israel itself.
The International Court of Justice is considering similar allegations against South Africa. The US has yet to comment on the accusations.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/05/world/middleeast/israel-amnesty-international-genocide-gaza.html