Two prominent Israeli rights groups, Physicians for Human Rights-Israel and B’Tselem, have accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, shattering a taboo in the country. The claims are based on reports that detail the systematic dismantling of Gaza’s health system, statements by senior officials about its goals there, and policies that contribute to the conclusion of genocide.
The groups say Israel has committed three acts of genocide defined by international law, including deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about physical destruction in whole or in part. They argue that repeated statements by Israeli officials and the military endorsing the total destruction, starvation, and permanent displacement of Palestinians in Gaza have demonstrated that Israel is intentionally trying to destroy Palestinian society.
Guy Shalev, director of Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, said it’s a painful conclusion but one that demands responsibility. The group’s report highlights the need for international action to protect Palestinians and calls on Israelis who have stayed silent to speak up.
The International Court of Justice is hearing a genocide case filed by South Africa against Israel, while Israel asserts it is fighting an existential war and abides by international law. However, the allegations from Israeli rights groups add to the ongoing debate over whether Israel’s military offensive in Gaza amounts to genocide.
As Israel grows increasingly isolated internationally, the accusations raise concerns about accountability and the need for a more nuanced understanding of the conflict. The situation remains complex, with many Israelis viewing the war as a justified response to Hamas’ deadly attack that killed 1,200 people and took over 250 hostage.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/genocide-israel-gaza-human-rights-palestinians-reports-5dc7c99fb0a3e7416564c78986ce7f5f