Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
06 December 2024 | 11:45 CAT

Amnesty International’s research has found sufficient basis to conclude that Israel has committed and is continuing to commit genocide against Palestinians in the occupied Gaza Strip. (Image – Amnesty International)

Amnesty International’s latest report has brought to light a chilling accusation against Israel, with the organization claiming that the country is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Published on 11 October 2024, the report titled You Feel Like You Are Subhuman calls attention to Israel’s military offensive, which began after the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Amnesty contends that Israel’s actions fit the definition of genocide as outlined in the Genocide Convention, citing three key violations: the killing of members of the group, causing serious bodily harm, and inflicting conditions that could lead to the physical destruction of Palestinians in Gaza.

Amnesty’s Genevieve Quintal discussed the findings during an interview on Radio Islam International. The report’s conclusions are based on comprehensive research, including hundreds of interviews, satellite imagery, and digital evidence collected in Gaza. Quintal emphasized that the evidence points to genocide, not simply military action, despite Israel’s claims that its objective is to dismantle Hamas. “Military objectives can coexist with genocidal intent,” Quintal stated, underscoring that Israel’s actions go beyond a legitimate military operation and have targeted the civilian population.

One of the most shocking revelations in the report is the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and water facilities. Amnesty International highlights how these actions are part of a broader strategy aimed at weakening the Palestinian population’s ability to survive. The report also points to the disproportionate scale of Israel’s response to the October 7 attacks, which Amnesty argues is a clear violation of international law. Quintal stated, “The assertion that Israel’s war on Gaza aims solely to dismantle Hamas and not physically destroy Palestinians simply does not stand up to scrutiny.”

The report also addresses the role of international allies, particularly arms suppliers like the United States and Germany. Amnesty calls for these nations to cease supplying arms to Israel, urging them to take a stronger stance against the atrocities and pressure Israel into ending its campaign in Gaza. Quintal criticized the international community’s failure to act decisively, calling it a stain on global conscience. “States need to move beyond expressions of regret and take sustained international action,” she urged, as Amnesty continues to call for justice for the Palestinian victims.

Amnesty’s report has reignited debate over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with the organization advocating for immediate international action, including sanctions against Israeli officials, to halt the atrocities. This report adds to a growing body of evidence highlighting the need for urgent intervention to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing that no nation should be allowed to commit genocide and remain unpunished.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Amnesty’s Genevieve Quintal here.