Massachusetts NLG Supports Investigation of Human Rights Violations in Gaza

January 26, 2009

Letter to Editors

Massachusetts NLG Supports Investigation of Human Rights Violations in Gaza

As we read with heartbreak of the devastation caused to children by Israel’s attacks on Gaza (“In Gaza, Palestinian children bear deep scars of war,” 1/26/09), we must consider legalaccountability for violations of international legal norms. The human cost is old news less than a week after the end of the Israeli invasion: more than 1300 Palestinians killed (33% of whom were children and far more civilians), 13 Israelis killed, and devastation of infrastructure in Gaza, affecting thousands. The reckless bombing of civilians by Israel included a strike on the main UN compound in Gaza, killing three staff members and on another UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) facility in the northern Gaza, the Fakhura Girls’ School in Jabalya, killing dozens. These actions are gross violations of international law, including Article 33 of the Fourth Geneva Convention prohibiting collective punishment and Article 48 forbidding military actions against civilian populations and infrastructure. Israel’s use of white phosphorous is also under investigation.

In addition, Israel’s near total closure of Gaza, denying essential humanitarian aid including food and medicine to be delivered to the desperate population is a violation of the obligations of an occupying power under the 1907 Hague Convention and the 1949 Fourth Geneva Convention. UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon and the UNRWA have called for an investigation of the Israeli air strike on the UN compound facilities.

The Massachusetts Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild joins in this call for an investigation and an assessment of Israel’s actions in light of the shocking human rights violations that have occurred and continue to impact the lives of the people of Gaza.

Neil Berman
Eleanor J. Newhoff
Co-Chairs/Massachusetts Chapter
National Lawyers Guild