Genocide Scholars Declare Israel's Actions in Gaza Constitute Genocide

The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS), a leading global body of genocide experts, has passed a resolution asserting that Israel's actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide under Article II of the 1948 U.N. Genocide Convention. The resolution, supported by 86% of voting members, cites deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, forced displacement, and deprivation of essential resources as evidence of genocidal intent.

The IAGS resolution also acknowledges that the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and over 250 hostages, constituted international crimes. However, it emphasizes that Israel's military response has led to over 63,000 deaths in Gaza, with widespread destruction and displacement.

Israel's Foreign Ministry has rejected the resolution, calling it "disgraceful" and "an embarrassment to the legal profession." The ministry stated that the resolution is "entirely based on Hamas's campaign of lies and the laundering of those lies by others."

The IAGS resolution adds to similar accusations by other international human rights organizations and Israeli NGOs. The International Court of Justice is currently considering a case brought by South Africa alleging that Israel is committing genocide, with proceedings ongoing.