Israeli forces advanced further into Gaza City, employing tanks and detonating explosive-laden vehicles in a suburb while airstrikes resulted in 19 reported deaths on Monday, according to Palestinian officials and witnesses. Meanwhile, the head of the leading association of genocide scholars declared that Israel’s actions in Gaza meet the criteria for genocide, with the majority of the association’s members supporting the resolution.
The International Association of Genocide Scholars, comprised of 500 scholars, voted with an 86% majority to affirm that Israel’s conduct in Gaza aligns with the legal definition of genocide outlined in the 1948 United Nations convention on genocide. This resolution is in line with similar stances taken by prominent human rights organizations, including some within Israel, despite Israel’s strong denial and criticism of these claims.
Israel is pursuing a plan to seize full control of Gaza, starting with Gaza City, aiming to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of the remaining 48 hostages. Recent military operations have led to the destruction of homes and displacement of families in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood as Israeli forces intensified their offensive.
Residents of Gaza City were urged to evacuate southwards as Israel planned to expand its operations westward, leaving many uncertain about their safety and next steps amid the ongoing violence and airstrikes. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with reports of casualties, including deaths from malnutrition and starvation, adding to the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The resolution by the International Association of Genocide Scholars underscores the severity of the situation in Gaza, condemning Israel’s alleged acts of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The association’s president emphasized the urgent need to halt these atrocities and called for accountability under international law.
As the conflict persists and ceasefire efforts falter, the toll on civilians continues to mount, with reports of casualties and growing desperation among the population. The situation remains precarious, with ongoing military operations and humanitarian concerns exacerbating an already dire crisis in Gaza.
