International Genocide Scholars Declare Israel’s Actions in Gaza Meet Legal Definition of Genocide Amid Deepening Crisis

The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS), the world’s leading professional association in the field, has formally declared that Israel’s conduct in Gaza fulfills the legal definition of genocide as outlined in the UN convention.

In a comprehensive three-page resolution, the IAGS detailed numerous actions undertaken by Israel over the 22-month conflict, including widespread attacks on Gaza’s critical healthcare, aid, and educational sectors. The resolution also cited the reported killing or injuring of 50,000 children, as highlighted by UNICEF, which severely impacts the Palestinian population’s ability to survive and regenerate as a group. Furthermore, the IAGS noted calls among Israeli leaders for the forced expulsion of Palestinians, the near-total demolition of housing, and statements dehumanizing Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel has vehemently rejected these allegations, with its Foreign Ministry dismissing the report as based on “Hamas lies” and poor research, calling it an “embarrassment to the legal profession.” Israel maintains its actions are justified self-defense following the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack, which killed approximately 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. The IAGS, however, states that Israel’s response has targeted the entire population of Gaza, not solely Hamas.

The declaration from the IAGS comes as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) continues to deliberate on a genocide case brought by South Africa in 2023. The ICJ has granted Israel an extension until January 2026 to present its defense, with Israel accusing the case of antisemitic motivations. While the IAGS resolution has no direct bearing on the ICJ’s proceedings, it adds significant weight to the growing international scrutiny.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. In August, the UN-backed food monitor, the IPC, confirmed that famine is now occurring in parts of Gaza, with Israel accused of causing it through ongoing restrictions on aid. The Hamas-run Ministry of Health reported on Monday that the death toll in the conflict has reached 63,557, with 160,660 injured, though these figures do not differentiate between civilians and fighters.

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