Academic Scholars Accuse Israel of Genocide in Gaza

Mon Sep 15 2025 14:57:33 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The International Association of Genocide Scholars has declared that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide, potentially altering global perceptions and discussions around the conflict.

The International Association of Genocide Scholars has voted overwhelmingly to declare Israel guilty of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, a claim Israel vehemently denies. This assertion adds to a growing list of organizations voicing similar accusations, contrasting with Israel's narrative that its military actions are aimed at defending against Hamas. With over 63,000 reported Palestinian deaths in ongoing conflict, calls for international judicial responses are mounting, alongside resistance from Israel and its allies.

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — The largest professional organization of scholars specializing in genocide studies announced on Monday that it believes Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

This assertion, put forth by the International Association of Genocide Scholars, which includes around 500 experts from around the globe, is set to create further polarization in international views towards Israel’s military actions. The resolution received overwhelming support, with 86% of members voting in favor, although specific voting details were not disclosed.

Melanie O’Brien, the group's president and a professor of international law at the University of Western Australia, stated, Experts in the field of genocide can recognize this situation for what it is. The definition of genocide, rooted in a 1948 convention formulated after the Holocaust, includes acts intended to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group, either fully or partially.

The Israeli government has categorically rejected these accusations, referring to them as an anti-Semitic “blood libel.” Israel contends that Hamas initiated the current conflict through an attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and abductions.

In the aftermath of this attack, which claimed the lives of around 1,200, mostly civilians, Israel's military operations have led to extensive destruction in Gaza, with more than 63,000 Palestinians reported dead according to local health authorities. These figures, drawn from a Hamas-run health ministry, remain contested by Israeli officials, though they have provided no alternative statistics.

Despite ongoing debates and rising calls for accountability, Israel emphasizes its efforts to minimize civilian harm and blames Hamas for the situation in Gaza, asserting that the group uses civilian areas for military operations.

This recent declaration from the scholars aligns with prior conclusions regarding other global crises, as the organization has also indicated areas where genocide intentions are evident, such as in China's treatment of the Uighurs and the plight of the Rohingya in Myanmar.

In a broader context, the accusation against Israel could exacerbate its already tenuous position on the world stage, especially as South Africa has also initiated discussions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) about potential breaches of the Genocide Convention.

The legal ramifications of these accusations are complex, given that the ICJ lacks enforcement capabilities. However, it could lead to significant political implications, particularly regarding U.N. Security Council actions if a ruling garners international support.

As the situation continues to evolve, the debate surrounding the legality and morality of Israel's actions will likely remain contentious, with implications reaching far beyond the current conflict.