Israel has committed genocide in the Gaza Strip, UN Commission finds : Shared by Robert Cohen

UN Human Rights Council

16 September 2025
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Summary:
A new report by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry concludes that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023. The Commission found that Israeli authorities carried out four of the five genocidal acts defined by the 1948 Genocide Convention, including mass killings, imposing starvation through siege, destroying healthcare and education systems, and preventing births.

Statements and conduct by Israeli leaders were judged as evidence of genocidal intent, with the Commission citing President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for incitement. The report urges Israel to immediately end its campaign, comply with International Court of Justice orders, and allow full humanitarian access. It also calls on Member States to halt arms transfers to Israel, hold corporations accountable, and act to prevent complicity. Navi Pillay, Chair of the Commission, said global inaction amounts to complicity and that states have a legal duty to stop the genocide.

Quotes:
“The Commission finds that Israel is responsible for the commission of genocide in Gaza.” — Navi Pillay, Chair of the Commission

“The responsibility for these atrocity crimes lies with Israeli authorities at the highest echelons who have orchestrated a genocidal campaign for almost two years now.” — Navi Pillay

“The international community cannot stay silent on the genocidal campaign launched by Israel against the Palestinian people in Gaza. When clear signs and evidence of genocide emerge, the absence of action to stop it amounts to complicity.” — Navi Pillay