UN Commission Says Israel Committed Genocide in Gaza
A United Nations Commission of Inquiry has concluded that Israel committed genocide in Gaza during its conflict with Hamas. The report said Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, are responsible for incitement to genocide.
Legal Criteria Met
The commission found that Israel met multiple legal criteria under the 1948 Genocide Convention—such as deliberate killing, causing serious bodily or mental harm, creating destructive conditions of life, and preventing births. However, it noted that the criterion of “intent” (the specific purpose to destroy) is harder to prove under international law.
Israel’s Response
Israel rejected the report, calling it “scandalous” and false. The Israeli government said the commission’s findings are distorted and politically motivated. It denied that its military operations in Gaza amount to genocide.
Implications & Next Steps
The report may carry weight in international courts and could lead to increased legal pressure. It urges nations to stop supplying arms to Israel that could be used in alleged genocidal acts and calls for accountability under international law. While the findings are serious, the commission itself cannot enforce any legal actions.
