UN Accuses Israel of Genocide in Gaza as Netanyahu Aide Touts Real Estate Bonanza

To say that the situation in war-torn Gaza is alarming would be a gross understatement. But here’s something that should get the entire international community both worried and enraged. A United Nations commission of inquiry has now said that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Its report says there are reasonable grounds to conclude that 4 of the 5 genocidal acts defined under international law—the 1948 Genocide Convention to be precise—have been carried out since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. These acts include killing members of a group, causing them serious bodily and mental harm, deliberately inflicting conditions calculated to destroy the group, and preventing births.

As if reports of genocide and allegations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and deliberately starving Palestinians in Gaza were not bad enough, Israel is adding insult to injury. Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has now said that the Gaza Strip is a potential real estate ‘bonanza’, and that he is in talks with the United States on how to divide up the coastal enclave after the war. Smotrich has once again made clear his desire to transform the enclave into Israeli territory.

The UN report, which is based on extensive investigations and evidence, has sent shockwaves through the international community. It highlights the systematic and widespread nature of the atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza. The report details the use of disproportionate force, the deliberate targeting of civilians, and the destruction of essential infrastructure, all of which have contributed to the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Smotrich’s comments have further inflamed tensions and drawn widespread condemnation. Critics argue that his remarks are insensitive and callous, given the suffering of the Palestinian people. The idea of profiting from the destruction and displacement of an entire population is seen as morally reprehensible. Human rights organizations and international leaders have called for an immediate end to the conflict and for accountability for the crimes committed.

The situation in Gaza has been exacerbated by the ongoing blockade, which has severely limited the flow of essential goods and services into the region. The blockade, coupled with the military operations, has led to a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions. The United Nations and various NGOs have repeatedly called for an end to the blockade and for the delivery of aid to the affected population.

The international community is now faced with a complex and challenging situation. On one hand, there is a need to address the humanitarian crisis and provide immediate relief to the people of Gaza. On the other hand, there is a pressing need to ensure that those responsible for the atrocities are held accountable. The UN report and Smotrich’s comments have added urgency to these efforts.

The United States, which has traditionally been a strong ally of Israel, has found itself in a difficult position. While it has expressed concern over the humanitarian situation, it has also defended Israel’s right to defend itself. However, the allegations of genocide and the callous remarks from Israeli officials have put pressure on the US to take a more critical stance.

The international community, including the European Union, the Arab League, and various human rights organizations, has called for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the allegations of genocide and war crimes. They have also urged for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and for the protection of civilians.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, and the international community must act swiftly and decisively to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure justice for the victims. The allegations of genocide and the callous remarks from Israeli officials highlight the urgent need for a global response to this crisis.