On Monday, rights organisations B’Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights Israel declared that the ongoing conflict in Gaza constitutes “genocide” against Palestinians, marking a significant statement from Israeli NGOs.
Both organisations have consistently voiced their criticisms of Israeli government policies; however, the language used in their reports released on Monday marked a significant escalation in their stance.
One is often unprepared for the stark realisation that they are a member of a society engaged in acts of genocide. “This is a deeply painful moment for us,” stated Yuli Novak, executive director of B’Tselem, during a news conference where the two reports were unveiled.
“We, as individuals living in this region and observing the daily realities, bear the responsibility to articulate the truth with utmost clarity,” she stated.
“There are allegations that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinians.“
The conflict in Gaza, which has persisted for 21 months, was ignited by an unprecedented assault from the Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, 2023.
The ongoing Israeli assault has devastated large portions of the Gaza Strip, which over two million Palestinians inhabit. Reports from the health ministry, operated by Hamas, indicate that the death toll has reached at least 59,821, with the majority of casualties being civilians.
Every Gazan has experienced displacement at least once since the onset of the conflict, with UN agencies issuing warnings about an escalating risk of famine and malnutrition among the population.
In an interim ruling issued in early 2024, the International Court of Justice determined that it is “plausible” the Israeli offensive may have breached the UN Genocide Convention, following a case brought forth by South Africa.
The Israeli government, with support from the United States, strongly refutes the allegations, asserting that its primary objective is to combat Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages currently in Gaza.
Reports from B’Tselem, a prominent rights organisation in Israel, along with Physicians for Human Rights Israel, contend that the objectives of the war extend beyond the initial claims.
B’Tselem’s report highlights remarks from high-ranking officials, asserting that Israel is systematically engaging in deliberate efforts to dismantle Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip.
Doctors Advocating for Human Rights. According to the report from Israel, the organisation claims that there has been a “deliberate and systematic destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system.”
