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Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Condemn Gaza genocide, cut ties with Israel: Asad to PM
Hyderabad: AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to condemn what he described as the Israeli genocide of Palestinians, ensure a sustained ceasefire, and extend humanitarian aid to Gazans at the earliest opportunity. "India must suspend diplomatic, military, and commercial ties with Israel until the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) orders are implemented in both letter and spirit. The Govt of India (GOI) must raise the issue of the sanctity and security of Al Haram al Sharif as a matter of religious freedom. It should also condemn both the attacks by settlers on the mosque and the restrictions imposed on access to it," Owaisi stated in his letter to the PM. He stressed that Palestinian children urgently need protection from starvation, disease, and Israeli military action, and called on India to provide global moral leadership and serve as a voice for the Global South. You Can Also Check: Hyderabad AQI | Weather in Hyderabad | Bank Holidays in Hyderabad | Public Holidays in Hyderabad "The people of Gaza have been facing ethnic cleansing and genocide at the hands of the Israeli govt. This has included targeted expulsions, the killing of civilians, and a blockade of essential aid. Over 60,000 people have been killed, the majority of them civilians, mostly women and children. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Kate Middleton's Daring Outfit Took Prince William's Breath Away Crowdy Fan Undo Famine-like conditions now prevail in Gaza," he wrote. Owaisi highlighted that hundreds of Palestinians have died while searching for food, with children being disproportionately affected. "Given India's tradition of humanitarian leadership, I urge the GOI to urgently provide food, medical, and relief aid to Gaza through international channels, and to support safe humanitarian access for civilians trapped in the conflict. India has a longstanding and demonstrable commitment to the Palestinian people," he said, recalling India's statement at the UN Security Council on July 24, 2025, and noting that India is a signatory to the 1948 Genocide Convention, which obliges parties to prevent genocide and avoid complicity. He concluded by stating that it is imperative for the GOI to demonstrate its commitment to the Palestinian cause and its opposition to genocide and war crimes. "All efforts must be made to prevent famine in Gaza, stop further ethnic cleansing, and bring an end to the genocide in the Palestinian territories," Owaisi wrote to PM Modi. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
The Journal
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Journal
Legality vs Reality: Could Western leaders face consequences for complicity in genocide?
LAST WEEK THE Irish government was accused of being 'complicit in Israel's genocide' in a High Court case taken by The Ditch, Uplift and surgeon Ahmed El Mokhallalati. The case argues that Ireland is violating international law by not inspecting flights reportedly carrying arms to Israel that have passed through Irish airspace during its war on the Gaza Strip in Palestine. The case was the latest example of a state being accused of complicity in the gravest of crimes because of its alleged facilitation of Israel's campaign, which has killed more than 60,000 people since October 2023. The European Union's former chief diplomat Josep Borrell issued a stark warning to the European Commission and member state leaders recently about the consequences of supporting Israel. 'Those who do not act to stop this genocide and these violations of international law, even though they have the power to do so, are complicit in them,' Borrell wrote in an article in The Guardian newspaper . European foreign ministers failed to agree to any sanctions against Israel last month , even though it had been found to have breached the human rights clauses of an association agreement with the bloc. There has been some movement from individual member states allied to Israel this week, though. In response to Israel's plan to take over Gaza City, Germany, one of Israel's largest weapons suppliers, suspended the sale of arms that could be used in Gaza until further notice. And last month the UK House of Commons was the scene of a striking exchange between Conservative MP Kit Malthouse and Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Malthouse asked if Lammy could not see the potential 'that he may end up at The Hague because of his inaction,' in relation to halting the supply of arms to Israel. Lammy dismissed the question as 'unbecoming'. Against the backdrop of global outrage at Israel's conduct in Gaza, its allies in Europe and North America have remained largely steadfast in their support for almost two years, both materially and diplomatically. Complicity is a crime punishable under Article III (e) of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide , most often referred to as the Genocide Convention. So what risks do supportive states and government officials face if Israel is found guilty of genocide in the case taken against it by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and what form could the consequences take, if any? The words Lammy to The Hague projected onto the UK House of Parliament by Palestinian Youth Movement on 3 August, 2025. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo According to international law experts who spoke to The Journal, powerful Western countries and their leaders could, at least in theory, find themselves facing charges in The Hague. 'If Israel is found to have violated the Genocide Convention by a competent court, it is possible that third states might themselves face liability or be deemed responsible under international law for related violations,' said Michael Becker, assistant professor of international humanitarian law at Trinity College Dublin. But for John Reynolds, associate professor of law at Maynooth University, the inherent flaws and historical power imbalances in the international legal system mean states and their leaders are unlikely to face real consequences. Advertisement 'Hopefully it's not going to deteriorate further. But if it does, I suppose we're into new territory, and if circumstances evolve in a certain way, for sure it's legally possible,' Reynolds said. But whether it is politically possible is another matter. A mounting case The conclusion that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza has been reached by some of the world's most eminent scholars who study the crime of crimes. An essay published in the New York Times on 15 July by Israeli genocide and Holocaust scholar Omer Bartov was a recent, high-profile example. 'I'm a genocide scholar. I know it when I see it,' the headline read . Since then, Israeli human rights NGO B'Tselem has come to the same conclusion. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch had already reached the same verdict within months of Israel's retaliation for the Hamas-led attack against it, in which almost 1,200 people were killed and roughly 250 were taken hostage. Uplift's Brian Cuthbert and Saoirse McHugh and The Ditch's Roman Shortall, Paulie Doyle and Eoghan McNeill outside the Four Courts in Dublin. Uplift Uplift On top of the South African case at the ICJ, in which Ireland has formally intervened, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued warrants for the arrest of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defence minister Yoav Gallant. It also issued warrants for Hamas leaders for their alleged crimes during the attack against Israel, all three of whom are now dead. In a less publicised ICJ case, Nicaragua has accused Germany of complicity in genocide through its material support for Israel. Israeli leaders and their supporters have rejected all of these accusations and described them as antisemitic, and even 'Holocaust inversion'. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo What does the law say? As Becker outlined, if the ICJ determines that Israel has committed violations of the Genocide Convention, a possible outcome of South Africa's case, 'it would then be possible to find that another state that has provided arms to Israel (if such arms were used to commit or facilitate genocidal acts) has violated international law'. 'As a legal matter, there is some debate about whether complicity requires weapons to have been provided with both the knowledge that they will be used to commit genocide and the intent that they be used for that purpose,' Becker said. 'The better view, however, is that full knowledge that the weapons will be used to perpetrate genocide is sufficient.' A different legal argument, he said, could focus on the obligation of states to prevent genocide, which is the duty of all signatories to the Convention. 'The question will be at what point did the state know, or at what point should the state have known, that weapons or bombs would likely be used in ways that violate international humanitarian law,' Becker said. He also noted that this is not to say that suspending arms supplies prior to a finding of genocide, or other violations of international law, would absolve a state of complicity. Related Reads Germany to halt some arms exports to Israel as international condemnation of Gaza plan mounts 'No more futile war': Hostage families fear the worst as Israel expands Gaza occupation ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, who is currently on leave pending the result of a sexual misconduct investigation. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo The ICJ deals with disputes between states, while the ICC is responsible for prosecuting individuals. So, when Malthouse referred to the 'personal' risk to Foreign Secretary Lammy, he was referring to the potential for prosecution in the ICC. Reynolds said that it is 'theoretically' possible that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and David Lammy could be prosecuted in the ICC. 'It's also possible for Joe Biden or Donald Trump or others in other countries as well. But it's practically very unlikely, because the way these ICC prosecutions go is by trying to target the most senior people involved at the most direct level of the commissions of the crimes. 'So in the case of Gaza, that would be the most senior people in the Israeli government and Israeli military.' Legality vs reality International law may sit atop the global legal order in theory but political realities have historically imposed informal limits on its efficacy. See the long list of African generals and warlords indicted by the ICC, and the absence of – for example – US and UK leaders who presided over a war of aggression in Iraq. The ICC will have to calculate the risks and rewards associated with taking on some of the most powerful world leaders, Reynolds explained. He said it would have to weigh the likelihood of success against the length and cost of such proceedings, as well as the potential impact of any rulings that might be handed down. Children crowd to receive a hot meal at a food distribution point in Gaza City in July 2025. Alamy Stock Photo Alamy Stock Photo Because there is no police force available to courts like the ICJ and ICC, they rely on states to implement their decisions, and their rulings are more likely to be cited in cases brought against governments and state officials in domestic courts, which do have enforcement powers. Still, Reynolds did note that few international legal scholars, lawyers and other experts would have predicted that an Israeli prime minister would be the subject of an ICC arrest warrant. At the same time though, the court has already faced consequences for its decision. The US – which does not recognise the ICC – has sanctioned its lead prosecutor and a number of judges on the court, while some states in Europe ( Hungary and Germany ) have simply ignored the court's authority despite being signatories to it. The issue of state complicity, Becker said, 'is distinct from questions relating to the potential criminal prosecution of state officials in those states that have provided support to Israel'. 'In principle, the ICC could seek to do so if certain additional conditions were met. In reality, however, it is extremely unlikely that the ICC would choose to allocate its resources to such a prosecution. 'In democratic states, the better remedy may be the ballot box.' Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal
Glasgow Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Glasgow Times
Recall Parliament to debate Netanyahu's Gaza plan, Green MP urges
Fronting the Green Party's bid for a recall of Parliament during the summer recess, Ellie Chowns warned the Israeli security cabinet's plan risked creating 'untold human suffering'. Mr Netanyahu's office has unveiled new principles for military action which include 'the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip', 'Israeli security control in the Gaza Strip' and 'the establishment of an alternative civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority'. The Israel Defence Forces 'will prepare for taking control of Gaza City while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the combat zones'. More than 61,000 people have been killed during Israeli military action in Gaza, according to Gaza's health ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, in a conflict which began after a Hamas-led attack killed around 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7 2023. Among the count are at least 13 people killed in southern Gaza on Thursday as they sought aid in an Israeli military zone. 'Netanyahu's brutal plan to take control of Gaza is yet another declaration of intent to commit war crimes and will lead to untold catastrophic civilian suffering,' Ms Chowns said. 'The UK must do far more than simply express disapproval. 'We need to recall Parliament immediately to hold the UK Government to account, to urgently assess whether we are meeting our obligations under the Genocide Convention and to enact immediate measures — including sanctions on the Israeli cabinet and suspension of all military co-operation and arms sales — to prevent further atrocities. 'The consequences of delay will be measured in countless innocent lives lost.' The North Herefordshire MP also called on the Government to publish its risk assessment of genocide in Gaza or a timeline for evidence-gathering. She also urged ministers to use diplomatic channels to press for a ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access into Gaza, safe release of the remaining hostages and an international inquiry into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity by Israel. Critics of Mr Netanyahu's plan include Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who said the Israeli government risked bringing 'more bloodshed'. He said: 'The Israeli government's decision to further escalate its offensive in Gaza is wrong and we urge it to reconsider immediately. 'This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages.' German chancellor Friedrich Merz said Israel 'has the right to defend itself against Hamas's terror' and added working towards a ceasefire and release of the hostages were a 'top priority' for the government in Berlin. But 'the even harsher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, approved by the Israeli cabinet last night, makes it increasingly difficult for the German government to see how these goals will be achieved', he said.
Powys County Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Powys County Times
Recall Parliament to debate Netanyahu's Gaza plan, Green MP urges
MPs should urgently gather in Westminster to debate Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to take control of Gaza City, a Green MP has urged. Fronting the Green Party's bid for a recall of Parliament during the summer recess, Ellie Chowns warned the Israeli security cabinet's plan risked creating 'untold human suffering'. Mr Netanyahu's office has unveiled new principles for military action which include 'the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip', 'Israeli security control in the Gaza Strip' and 'the establishment of an alternative civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority'. The Israel Defence Forces 'will prepare for taking control of Gaza City while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the combat zones'. More than 61,000 people have been killed during Israeli military action in Gaza, according to Gaza's health ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, in a conflict which began after a Hamas-led attack killed around 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7 2023. Among the count are at least 13 people killed in southern Gaza on Thursday as they sought aid in an Israeli military zone. 'Netanyahu's brutal plan to take control of Gaza is yet another declaration of intent to commit war crimes and will lead to untold catastrophic civilian suffering,' Ms Chowns said. 'The UK must do far more than simply express disapproval. 'We need to recall Parliament immediately to hold the UK Government to account, to urgently assess whether we are meeting our obligations under the Genocide Convention and to enact immediate measures — including sanctions on the Israeli cabinet and suspension of all military co-operation and arms sales — to prevent further atrocities. 'The consequences of delay will be measured in countless innocent lives lost.' The North Herefordshire MP also called on the Government to publish its risk assessment of genocide in Gaza or a timeline for evidence-gathering. She also urged ministers to use diplomatic channels to press for a ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access into Gaza, safe release of the remaining hostages and an international inquiry into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity by Israel. Critics of Mr Netanyahu's plan include Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who said the Israeli government risked bringing 'more bloodshed'. He said: 'The Israeli government's decision to further escalate its offensive in Gaza is wrong and we urge it to reconsider immediately. 'This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages.' German chancellor Friedrich Merz said Israel 'has the right to defend itself against Hamas's terror' and added working towards a ceasefire and release of the hostages were a 'top priority' for the government in Berlin. But 'the even harsher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, approved by the Israeli cabinet last night, makes it increasingly difficult for the German government to see how these goals will be achieved', he said.
South Wales Guardian
4 days ago
- Politics
- South Wales Guardian
Recall Parliament to debate Netanyahu's Gaza plan, Green MP urges
Fronting the Green Party's bid for a recall of Parliament during the summer recess, Ellie Chowns warned the Israeli security cabinet's plan risked creating 'untold human suffering'. Mr Netanyahu's office has unveiled new principles for military action which include 'the demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip', 'Israeli security control in the Gaza Strip' and 'the establishment of an alternative civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority'. The Israel Defence Forces 'will prepare for taking control of Gaza City while distributing humanitarian assistance to the civilian population outside the combat zones'. More than 61,000 people have been killed during Israeli military action in Gaza, according to Gaza's health ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its count, in a conflict which began after a Hamas-led attack killed around 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7 2023. Among the count are at least 13 people killed in southern Gaza on Thursday as they sought aid in an Israeli military zone. 'Netanyahu's brutal plan to take control of Gaza is yet another declaration of intent to commit war crimes and will lead to untold catastrophic civilian suffering,' Ms Chowns said. 'The UK must do far more than simply express disapproval. 'We need to recall Parliament immediately to hold the UK Government to account, to urgently assess whether we are meeting our obligations under the Genocide Convention and to enact immediate measures — including sanctions on the Israeli cabinet and suspension of all military co-operation and arms sales — to prevent further atrocities. 'The consequences of delay will be measured in countless innocent lives lost.' The North Herefordshire MP also called on the Government to publish its risk assessment of genocide in Gaza or a timeline for evidence-gathering. She also urged ministers to use diplomatic channels to press for a ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access into Gaza, safe release of the remaining hostages and an international inquiry into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity by Israel. Critics of Mr Netanyahu's plan include Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who said the Israeli government risked bringing 'more bloodshed'. He said: 'The Israeli government's decision to further escalate its offensive in Gaza is wrong and we urge it to reconsider immediately. 'This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages.' German chancellor Friedrich Merz said Israel 'has the right to defend itself against Hamas's terror' and added working towards a ceasefire and release of the hostages were a 'top priority' for the government in Berlin. But 'the even harsher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, approved by the Israeli cabinet last night, makes it increasingly difficult for the German government to see how these goals will be achieved', he said.
