2 November 2023 at 16:54 UN experts: – Time is running out to prevent genocide The Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip is exposed to a “serious risk of genocide”, says a group of UN experts in a statement. – We demand a humanitarian ceasefire to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, say the experts, who include several of the UN’s special rapporteurs. – Time is running out to avoid genocide and a humanitarian disaster in Gaza, the statement they published on Thursday afternoon reads. One of those who have signed the statement is Francesca Albanese, who is the special rapporteur for human rights in the Palestinian territories that have been occupied since 1967. The special rapporteurs for clean drinking water, food, physical and mental health, internally displaced persons, freedom of expression and racism have also signed. – The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic tipping point, the experts warn. They say there is a precarious need for food, water, medicine, fuel and necessary supplies. They also warn of an imminent health hazard in the besieged enclave. The special rapporteurs are unpaid and independent, but have been given a mandate by the UN Human Rights Council. They do not speak on behalf of the organization, but report their findings to the UN. They say that all parties must fulfill their obligations in line with international law and human rights. They also express “increasing horror” at the attacks on the Jabalia refugee camp and call them “an obvious violation of international law – and a war crime”. – Attacking a camp where civilians, including women and children, have sought shelter is a complete violation of the rules of proportionality and of the distinction between combatants and civilians. Israel and the Palestinian armed groups must remember that even in war there are rules, say the special rapporteurs. They also address more than those directly involved in the conflict. – It is time to act. Israel’s allies also have a responsibility and must act now to prevent the disastrous line the country has taken, they write further. The UN Genocide Convention lists several acts that individually constitute genocide if they are committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, “a nation, ethnic, racial or religious group as such”. The acts listed include killing, physical and psychological harm, preventing births, removing children, and subjecting a group to living conditions conducive to its physical destruction. 152 countries have joined the convention, which entered into force in 1951. Israel signed in 1949. (NTB)
ttn-69
– Time is running out to prevent genocide – Latest news – news
