12/28/23: Israeli Historian Raz Segal On Genocide And Gaza

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The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, specifically the recent attack on Gaza, has sparked intense debate within the academic community of Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Some scholars argue that this situation necessitates a reevaluation of long-held assumptions, while others maintain that business as usual is the way forward. The disagreement became apparent in two opposing statements issued by scholars. The first, organized by the speaker, labeled Israel's actions as genocidal, while the second, backed by Holocaust scholars, did not acknowledge any crime committed. This disagreement highlights a common misconception about genocide: it is often believed to involve the immediate extermination of an entire group. However, the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide defines genocide as a process, which can include various forms of mass violence, forced displacement, and ethnic cleansing. The Holocaust itself, contrary to popular belief, was not just about the immediate killing of Jews but a prolonged process of ethnic cleansing and mass violence. It is essential to recognize that the Holocaust should not be the sole reference point for understanding genocide, and labeling contemporary situations as genocidal does not diminish the gravity of the Holocaust. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the complex nature of genocide and the need for continued scholarly engagement and analysis.

Genocide, as defined in international law under the UN Genocide Convention, is unique due to its specific intent to destroy a national, ethnic, religious, or racial group. This intent is a high threshold and contributes to the rarity of genocide cases recognized since 1948. Another distinguishing factor is the legal obligation for states to intervene when they recognize a clear risk of genocide or when it's already unfolding. Incitement to genocide, as outlined in Article 3 of the convention, is also a separate crime and can be observed in media discourses and political rhetoric. In the case of Israel since the 7th of October attack, there have been clear and explicit statements and incitement to genocide in the media and political discourse, which is a matter of public record.

Genocide, as defined by international law, involves not only mass killings but also incitement to violence through media and statements from those in positions of authority. This was highlighted in the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) trials, where journalists were convicted for their role in inciting the genocide of Tutsis. More recently, unashamed and explicit calls for violence have been made publicly in Israel, raising concerns about the potential for genocidal actions. This underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing incitement to violence as a key component of genocide, and the potential role of media and those in power in shaping public opinion and actions. Additionally, for those looking to further their education and career, Purdue Global offers flexible degree programs for working adults, and Snagajob is a valuable resource for businesses seeking to hire high-quality hourly workers. Symbionica provides all-natural supplements that actually work, with no fillers or toxins.

While there are concerns about genocidal intent and discourse towards Jews in certain countries, it's crucial to remember that the UN definition of genocide requires both intent and the capacity to carry it out. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, marked by intense violence and destruction, meets the requirement of intent. However, Hamas lacks the capacity to carry out genocide against Israel. The attack on Gaza has resulted in unprecedented levels of killing, destruction, and displacement, targeting various structures and groups, including schools, mosques, universities, churches, agricultural fields, journalists, health care professionals, and hospitals. While Hamas' actions involve terrorism and war crimes, they do not meet the definition of genocide.

While Hamas has made statements about destroying Israel, their actions do not meet the threshold for genocide under international law. The military response from Israel after October 7th, however, which aimed for the physical destruction of Palestinian society and life in Gaza, can be considered genocidal and illegal under international law. The destruction of Palestinian culture and society, including the bombing of cultural sites, is a significant part of this ongoing conflict, with calls for a "second Nakba" expressing the intent to overshadow the destruction and violence of the 1948 Nakba. The capacity to carry out such destruction is a crucial factor in determining genocide, and Hamas lacks that capacity. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza, as expressed in Israeli media and society, demonstrate the total erasure and removal of Palestinians from the region that is being pursued.

The situation in Gaza is a humanitarian crisis with approximately 2 million people, or nearly the entire population, experiencing forced displacement under conditions of total siege. Israel's actions, including denial of food, water, and clean water, have led to the outbreak of infectious diseases and deliberate creation of life-threatening conditions. Historically, such forced displacement and desert deportations have often led to genocide, as seen in the cases of the Armenian genocide and the Herero and Nama genocide. The current situation in Gaza goes beyond the destruction of Palestinian life and society in part, and the ongoing health crisis is expected to worsen with over 355,000 people, or around a quarter of the population, suffering from infectious diseases. It's crucial to acknowledge the severity of this situation and its historical parallels. For working adults seeking to further their education and advance their careers, Purdue Global offers flexible degree programs to help you achieve your goals. Snagajob is a valuable resource for businesses looking to hire high-quality hourly workers, providing access to a large talent pool and seamless hiring process.

The debate over Israel's actions towards Palestinians in the United States and Israel differs significantly. While some US politicians argue that Israel goes to great lengths to protect civilian life, the discourse in Israel often leans towards the idea that damage is more important than precision. However, it's important to note that the idea of perpetrators seeing themselves as victims and justifying genocidal actions is historically common. In the Israeli context, there are some who view the conflict as a war in defense of western civilization. This discourse is prevalent in mainstream media and society, cutting across political divides. Yet, there are still a minority of voices, including in media outlets like 972, that offer critical perspectives and discussions on the issue of genocide.

Despite clear evidence of genocidal intent and actions towards the Palestinian population in Gaza, there exists a denialist discourse among some individuals and societies involved, as well as outside observers. This denial is a common mechanism in genocides, both during their unfolding and afterwards. The Israeli army and soldiers have publicly expressed genocidal sentiments, and there are numerous instances of violence against Palestinian civilians, including children. However, there is a disconnect between this reality and the way some people perceive the situation, particularly in Israel and among its supporters. They argue that the actions are primarily self-defense and do not involve the elimination of the Muslim population in Israel. The UN definition of genocide, established in 1948, may not fully capture the complexities of contemporary conflicts, leading to misunderstandings and misconceptions. It is crucial to acknowledge and address the genocidal intentions and actions, rather than denying their existence.

The situation for Palestinian citizens of Israel, both Muslim and Christian, is a cause for concern and can be considered part of the process of genocide as defined by the Genocide Convention. Israel's actions against Palestinians in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza, including displacement, violence, and incitement, have escalated in recent years. Historically, Palestinian citizens of Israel have faced military rule and discrimination, and more recently, Israel's Jewish Nation-State Law has further relegated them to second-class citizenship. In 2021, Israeli Palestinians protested against Israeli violence in East Jerusalem and Gaza, leading to a violent response from both the state and Jewish citizens, which underscores the state's long-standing view of Palestinian citizens as potential enemies. These factors, taken together, suggest a dangerous trend that warrants close attention and action to prevent further harm and ensure the safety and equality of all citizens.

The situation between Israelis and Palestinians, particularly in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, is critical and could potentially amount to genocide. This realization holds significant implications, including the obligation for international communities to intervene and prevent such actions, as well as the potential accountability of perpetrators under international law. The international community, including those providing arms to Israel, have a legal obligation to prevent genocide, and failure to do so could be considered aiding in the crime. Additionally, recognizing the genocidal assault could lead to a larger discussion on the context of Israeli mass violence and colonialism, and the need for accountability for all involved. It's important to remember that genocide is not just about religious faith, but also ethnicity and nationality, and the UN definition applies to all cases. The larger context of Israeli violence and colonialism, as well as accountability for all perpetrators, is crucial for moving forward.

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