Israel Accused of Genocide by World’s Leading Genocide Scholars

The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) is the world’s leading association of genocide experts, and it has declared that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.

A resolution passed by the IAGS states that Israel’s conduct meets the legal definition under the UN Genocide Convention. It cites a range of actions, including attacks on healthcare, aid, and educational facilities; the killing and injuring of 50,000 children; and the demolition of housing in Gaza.

The resolution also points out Israeli leaders’ statements dehumanising Palestinians and promising to “flatten Gaza” and turn it into “hell”.

Out of 500 members of the IAGS, 28% voted on the resolution, with 86% in support. The IAGS said that Israel’s response to the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack targeted Gaza’s entire population, not just militants.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry called the report “based on Hamas lies” and an “embarrassment to the legal profession” and insisted that Israel is itself the victim of genocide.

The UN and Western nations have said only a court ruling can confirm genocide. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is considering a case brought by South Africa in 2023, with Israel given until January 2026 to present its defence.

According to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health, 63,557 people have been killed and 160,660 injured during the conflict so far.