Israel Denies Amnesty Accusation of Genocide in Gaza

Israel has strongly rejected Amnesty International’s accusation of committing genocide in Gaza, calling the report “entirely false.” The Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Thursday, condemning the human rights organization as “deplorable and fanatical,” and labeling its findings as fabricated and based on lies.

Israel responded by emphasizing that its military actions in Gaza are a legitimate act of self-defense in response to Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which it described as “genocidal.” The statement further asserted that Israel’s operations are in full compliance with international law.

Amnesty International, in its 300-page report, accused Israel of carrying out genocide, citing dehumanizing statements by Israeli officials, satellite imagery documenting destruction, and on-the-ground reports from people in Gaza. The organization called the findings a “wake-up call” to the global community and urged governments to halt arms transfers to Israel.

The October 7 attack by Hamas led to the deaths of 1,208 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures cited by AFP. In retaliation, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has resulted in at least 44,532 deaths, predominantly civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, figures that the United Nations considers credible.