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Three Palestinian human rights groups have called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate Israel, alleging war crimes including genocide through their bombing and besieging of Gaza.
Israel, which is not a member of the Hague-based court and does not acknowledge its jurisdiction, did not immediately respond to the request for comment.
In previous statements, Israel has condemned allegations of genocide and stated that its actions target Hamas militants, not civilians.
The three human rights groups – Al Haq, Al Mezan, and the Palestine Human Rights Campaign – have specifically urged the ICC to look into Israeli air strikes on crowded civilian areas in Gaza, the territory’s siege, and the displacement of its population, which they claim amount to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and incitement to genocide.
The ICC has confirmed receipt of the communication from the three groups and stated that it will assess the information provided.
Israel launched its offensive on Gaza following a Hamas raid on southern Israel on Oct. 7, resulting in the deaths of 1,400 people, primarily civilians, and the capture of about 240 hostages, according to Israeli reports.
Palestinian officials allege that Israel’s actions in Gaza have caused the deaths of over 10,000 people.
The ICC has the authority to investigate nationals of non-member states under specific circumstances, including when crimes are reported to have taken place within the territories of member states. The Palestinian territories are included in the ICC’s membership.
Additionally, families of Israeli victims of the Oct. 7 attacks have also submitted documents to the ICC urging an investigation into Hamas’ actions.