Posts tagged with "genocide"

UN Report: Systemic Gender-Based Violence by Israel Against Palestinians

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A recent report issued by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, has raised serious concerns about the treatment of Palestinians. The report, released on March 13, 2025, alleges that Israel has increasingly employed sexual, reproductive, and other forms of gender-based violence against Palestinians as part of a broader effort to undermine their right to self-determination.

Need to Know:

  • The UN report documents a range of violations against Palestinian women, men, girls, and boys since October 7, 2023.
  • The Commission’s findings suggest that sexual and gender-based violence is being used as a strategy of war by Israel.
  • Specific acts of violence reported include forced public stripping, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and violence to genitals.
  • The report also highlights the destruction of sexual and reproductive healthcare facilities in Gaza and the denial of humanitarian assistance, which has led to deaths from pregnancy complications.
  • The Commission found that these acts amount to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and even genocidal acts.
  • The report emphasizes a climate of impunity regarding these crimes and calls for accountability through the International Criminal Court and national courts.

Key Takeaways:

  • The findings in the UN report are extremely serious and warrant further investigation.
  • The report highlights the devastating impact of conflict on vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
  • The destruction of healthcare infrastructure and the denial of essential medical supplies have severe consequences for reproductive health and overall well-being.
  • Accountability for alleged human rights violations is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for victims.

Implications for America and American Culture:

The findings in this report can have several implications for America and American culture, particularly regarding its role in the Israel-Gaza conflict:

  • Public Opinion and Political Discourse: The report’s findings may influence public opinion in the United States regarding U.S. foreign policy towards Israel. It could fuel debates about the level of support and aid provided to Israel and raise questions about accountability for human rights violations.
  • Activism and Advocacy: Human rights organizations and activist groups in the U.S. may use the report to advocate for policy changes, such as conditioning aid to Israel on human rights improvements or supporting investigations by international bodies.
  • Cultural Narratives: The report could challenge existing narratives about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within American culture, prompting discussions and re-evaluations of historical and political contexts.
  • Role in International Relations: As a major global power with a close relationship with Israel, the U.S. may face increased pressure to address the allegations in the report and take action to promote accountability and human rights.
  • Domestic Polarization: The Israeli genocide of Palestinians is a highly polarizing issue in the U.S., and the report’s findings could further exacerbate divisions and intensify political debates.

Although the report’s allegations are contested, thanks to Israel Occupation Forces (IOF) posting their war crimes and crimes against humanity on social media and independent journalism the world continues to bear witness to these atrocities. The seriousness of the  UN report warrants attention, accountability and discussion, both within the international community and within the United States.

The Commission’s detailed report can be found here. The Commission’s findings on sexual and gender-based violence committed by the military wing of Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7 October 2023 can be found here.

Background: The UN Human Rights Council mandated the Commission on 27 May 2021 to “investigate, in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel, all alleged violations of international humanitarian law and all alleged violations and abuses of international human rights law leading up to and since 13 April 2021.” Resolution A/HRC/RES/S-30/1 further requested the Commission of inquiry to “investigate all underlying root causes of recurrent tensions, instability and protraction of conflict, including systematic discrimination and repression based on national, ethnic, racial or religious identity.” The Commission of Inquiry was mandated to report to the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly annually commencing from June 2022 and September 2022, respectively.

More information on the work of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, can be found here.

For more information and media requests, please contact: Todd Pitman, Media Adviser for the Human Rights Council’s Investigative Missions, at todd.pitman@un.org, Cell: +41 76 691 1761, or Pascal Sim, Human Rights Council Media Officer, at simp@un.org.

ICC Investigating Biden Administration for Aiding Israeli War Crimes

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ICC Legal Action Against Biden: US Support for Israel Under Scrutiny

A US-based human rights group, Democracy for the Arab World Now (Dawn), has taken the unprecedented step of formally submitting a referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC) against President Joe Biden and other former US officials. The charges include complicity in Israeli war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Need to Know:

  • Dawn, founded by the late journalist Jamal Khashoggi, is a human rights group that advocates for democracy and human rights in the Middle East and North Africa.
  • The ICC is an international court that prosecutes individuals for the most serious crimes of international concern, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
  • The US and Israel are not signatories to the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC.
  • Dawn alleges that Biden, former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, and other US officials are complicit in Israeli war crimes due to their continued support of Israel despite knowledge of its actions in Gaza.
  • The submission to the ICC argues that the actions of these US officials meet the legal standard for aiding and abetting under Article 25 of the ICC’s Rome Statute.

Takeaways:

  • The legal action taken by Dawn is significant because it challenges the US government’s support of Israel and its actions in Gaza.
  • The allegations made by Dawn raise serious questions about the legality of US foreign policy in the Middle East.
  • The ICC’s decision on whether to investigate the allegations could have major implications for US-Israel relations.
  • The move highlights the increasing scrutiny of US human rights practices and its foreign policy decisions.

Implications:

  • American Culture: This case could further divide public opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the US’s role in it. It may also lead to increased awareness and discussion about international law and human rights.
  • American Society: The “Abandon Biden” movement shows that there is growing discontent with the president’s foreign policy, particularly among those who are critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza. This discontent could lead to further protests and activism.
  • American Foreign Policy: If the ICC decides to investigate the allegations against Biden and other US officials, it could have serious implications for US foreign policy. The US may be forced to reconsider its relationship with Israel and its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It could also strain relationships with other countries and international organizations.

Brief Background for ICC Legal Action:

The ICC is a permanent international criminal court with the jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of aggression. It is based in The Hague, Netherlands. The ICC was established by the Rome Statute, which was adopted in 1998 and entered into force in 2002. The US is not a member of the ICC.

The legal action brought by Dawn is based on the principle of “complicity,” which means that even if a person does not directly commit a crime, they can still be held liable if they aid, abet, or otherwise assist in the commission of that crime. Dawn argues that by continuing to provide military and financial aid to Israel despite knowledge of its actions in Gaza, Biden and other US officials are complicit in Israeli war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Watch Democracy NOW! report on YouTube, “Biden, Blinken & Austin Accused of Complicity in Israel’s Gaza War Crimes; ICC Urged to Investigate,” HERE. 

Bear River Massacre: A Dark Day in American History

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The Bear River Massacre occurred on January 29, 1863, when Colonel Patrick Edward Connor led approximately 200 California Volunteers in an attack on a Northwestern Shoshoni winter camp in present-day Utah. The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 250 Shoshone men, women, and children.

Take-Aways

  • The Bear River Massacre was a brutal and unprovoked attack on a peaceful Shoshone village.
  • The Bear River Massacre was motivated by the desire of white settlers to take control of Shoshone land and resources. Additionally, the Shoshone tribe had retaliated against the white settlers who had appropriated their land and water, prompting territorial officials to call on Colonel Connor’s troops to punish the Northwestern band.
  • The U.S. Army’s actions at Bear River were part of a larger pattern of violence and dispossession against Native Americans.
  • Colonel Connor used surprise and deception to carry out the attack on the Shoshone. His troops completely enveloped the Shoshone camp and fired indiscriminately on men, women, and children.

Impact on American Culture and Society

The Bear River Massacre had a devastating impact on the Shoshone people. The massacre not only resulted in the loss of life but also the loss of land, resources, and cultural identity. The massacre also contributed to the growing rift between Native Americans and white settlers. The Bear River Massacre is a reminder of the dark side of American history and the violence that was inflicted upon Native Americans in the name of westward expansion. It is also a stark reminder of the cyclical nature of history as the world bears witness to the genocide in Palestine by Israel for its settler colonialism and expansion. 

Lessons Learned

The Bear River Massacre offers several important lessons. First, it is a reminder of the importance of respecting the rights of all people, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Second, it is a reminder of the dangers of unchecked military power. Third, it is a reminder of the importance of historical memory and the need to acknowledge past injustices.

The Bear River Massacre was a tragic event that had a profound impact on American history. It is a reminder of the dark side of westward expansion and the violence that was inflicted upon Native Americans. It is important to remember the Bear River Massacre and to learn from its lessons so that such atrocities are never repeated. And yet, despite the lessons offered by history, the United States is an active partner in the genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank. History is cyclical when lessons are not learned. 

A Plea for Humanity: Supporting Families in Gaza

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The current situation in Gaza is dire, with families facing unimaginable hardships due to ongoing conflict and extreme poverty. ePluribusAmerica is highlighting the plight of Alaa Muasher and her children, and offering a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the urgent need for humanitarian aid.

The Need for Support: A Family’s Story

Alaa Muasher, a relief and social activist who previously worked with Rehmah Global Relief Gaza, is now struggling to provide for her family in makeshift shelters with limited access to food, water, and basic necessities. She describes their living conditions as breeding grounds for disease, with polluted water and unsanitary conditions posing serious health risks. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s the reality for Alaa and countless other families in Gaza. Click HERE to support Aala and her children. 

Key Takeaways and Need to Knows:

  • Extreme Poverty: Families are battling not just the aftermath of conflict, but also extreme poverty, with limited income, high food prices, and a lack of basic necessities.
  • Unsafe Living Conditions: Makeshift shelters offer little protection from the elements and pose serious health risks due to unsanitary conditions and polluted water.
  • Psychological Trauma: The prolonged conflict and displacement have caused significant psychological trauma, particularly for children who have lost parents and families living under constant threat.
  • Urgent Need for Aid: Rehmah Global Relief is raising funds to support Alaa and her family, as well as other families in similar situations. Donations will help provide food, water, shelter, and medical care.

Implications for American Culture and Society:

While the situation in Gaza may seem geographically distant, it has important implications for American culture and society:

  • Humanitarian Responsibility: As a global superpower, the United States is complicit in the genocide being carried in Palestine by its ally, Israel, and therefore has a moral responsibility to end the slaughter and provide humanitarian aid and support to those in need, regardless of their location. This aligns with American values of compassion and helping those less fortunate. 
  • Awareness and Education: It’s crucial for Americans to be aware of global crises and understand their role in it, as well as the human impact of conflict and poverty. This awareness can foster empathy, encourage civic engagement, and promote support for humanitarian organizations.
  • Interconnectedness: In today’s interconnected world, events in one region can have ripple effects globally. Supporting genocide in We, The People’s name is not only un-American, it’s deplorable. We must come together to support humanitarian efforts and contribute to greater global stability and security. This, is the America yet to be. 
  • Challenging Isolationism and Colonialism: The crisis in Gaza challenges any notions of isolationism. Global issues require global solutions, and the United States must be engaged in humanitarian efforts to promote peace and alleviate suffering, not take part in them.

Call to Action:

The situation in Gaza is a stark reminder of the fragility of human life and the importance of global solidarity. We must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of families like Alaa’s. Every donation, no matter the size, can make a difference. We must also turn our backs to all elected official that supports inhumanity and genocide in our name. 

To contribute to Rehmah Global Relief’s efforts and support families in Gaza, please consider donating. By showing our humanity and offering our support, we can help change their sadness into hope.

Beyond financial donations, individuals can take several actions to support families in Gaza:

  • Raise Awareness: Share information about the situation in Gaza on social media, with friends, family, and in community groups. Use the provided links (the Instagram and LinkedIn links for Alaa Muasher, and the links to Rehmah Global Relief) to spread awareness of the specific needs and how people can help. Don’t just share the information once; continue to post updates and remind people of the ongoing need.
  • Advocate for Policy Change: Contact elected officials (local representatives, members of Congress, etc.) and urge them to support policies that promote peace and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. This includes advocating for increased funding for humanitarian organizations operating in the region and supporting diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and end the occupation of Palestine. Write letters, send emails, make phone calls, or participate in peaceful protests or rallies.
  • Support Ethical Consumption: Research companies and businesses that operate in or have ties to the region and consider supporting those that prioritize fair labor practices and sustainable development in Gaza. This can help create economic opportunities for families and communities.
  • Volunteer (If Possible): While physically volunteering in Gaza may be difficult due to the current situation, look for opportunities to volunteer with humanitarian organizations that are working on relief efforts for Gaza. This might include administrative tasks, fundraising support, or community outreach.
  • Educate Yourself: Learn more about the history of the conflict, the current political situation, and the challenges faced by families in Gaza. Deeper understanding enables more effective advocacy and support. Follow reputable news sources and research organizations that provide accurate information about the region.
  • Send Letters or Messages of Support: While direct communication may be difficult, sending messages of support or solidarity to families or communities in Gaza (through established organizations or initiatives) can offer a sense of hope and connection. These can be sent digitally (if possible) or through humanitarian organizations that facilitate such communication.
  • Support Boycotts, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movements: The BDS movement is a global campaign that calls for boycotts, divestment, and sanctions against Israel until it complies with international law regarding Palestinian rights. Participating in or supporting this movement is a way to take direct action to bring about systemic change.

By taking these actions, individuals can amplify the voices of those affected by the crisis and contribute to long-term solutions for peace and stability in the region.

Ceasefire Reached Between Israel and Hamas: A Potential Turning Point?

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After 15 months of intense conflict, a ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, as reported by multiple news outlets. This significant development promises to bring a crucial break in the violence that has ravaged the Gaza Strip. Here’s a break down of the key information you need to know and the potential takeaways from this pivotal moment.

Need to Know:

  • 15 Months of Conflict: This ceasefire marks the end of a brutal 15-month period of fighting in the Gaza Strip, a conflict that has had devastating consequences for both Israelis and Palestinians.
  • Hostage Release: A core component of the agreement involves the release of dozens of hostages held in Gaza, along with Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. This is a significant humanitarian aspect of the deal.
  • Brokered Negotiations: The ceasefire was the result of weeks of negotiations brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, highlighting the importance of international diplomacy in resolving such complex conflicts.
  • Timeline: While senior Hamas officials have confirmed the agreement, official announcements from both Israel and Hamas are pending. The agreement requires approval from the Israeli cabinet and potentially the Supreme Court, with the first hostage release tentatively scheduled for Sunday.
  • Background of the Conflict: The war began after Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel—1,100 people were killed in the attacks, and about 240 were taken captive—that subsequently launched Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, leading to widespread displacement and destruction. Over the past 15 months, approximately 46,707 people in Gaza have been killed, including around 18,000 children. This death toll equates to 1 in every 50 people in Gaza. Many analysts and rights groups suspect the actual number of deaths is much higher.

Takeaways:

  • Potential for Reduced Violence: The most immediate and crucial takeaway is the potential for a significant reduction in violence and a respite for civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, who have endured a harsh winter while being denied humanitarian aid by Israel under what the international community and governing bodies label a genocide and ethnic cleansing. 
  • Path to Longer-Term Peace? While a ceasefire is not a peace treaty, it creates an opening for further negotiations and a potential path toward a more lasting resolution. However, as stated by a Hamas official, similar deals have been reached in the past, emphasizing the need for sustained diplomatic efforts.
  • Impact on Regional Dynamics: This agreement has implications for the broader Middle East region, particularly given the involvement of regional powers like Iran and the influence of international actors like the United States.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: The conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the ceasefire allows for increased aid and support to reach those in need. The stories of families affected by the conflict, like that of the killing of six-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, six of her family members, and two paramedics attempting their rescue, which experts say “may amount to a war crime,” underscores the devastating personal toll.
  • International Pressure: The international community played a vital role in pushing for a ceasefire, including the open warrant from the ICC for Netanyahu and Gallant’s arrest on war crimes charges, despite pushback and threats from Israel’s staunches ally, the U.S. Still, this highlights the importance of international pressure in conflict resolution.

Staying Informed:

This is a developing story, and further details will emerge in the coming days. It is crucial to follow updates from reputable news sources like AP News and others for the latest information. This ceasefire represents a potentially important turning point, and its long-term impact will depend on the commitment of all parties to upholding the agreement and pursuing a more lasting peace.

US Military Aid to Israel Soars Amidst Ongoing Genocide in Palestine

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Recent data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reveals a dramatic increase in US military aid to Israel. This surge in support of Israel’s brutal genocide of the Palestinian people has significant implications for both American domestic policies and the American people.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US supplied 69% of Israel’s arms between 2019 and 2023, increasing to 78% amidst escalating conflict.
  • By August 2024, the US had delivered 50,000 tons of weapons worth billions of dollars to Israel.
  • This aid has been transported via hundreds of planes and ships, highlighting the massive logistical effort involved.

Need to Know:

  • The ongoing genocide being carried out by Israel has resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement of civilians in Palestine and neighboring countries.
  • US military aid to Israel plays a crucial role in sustaining Israel’s military capabilities.
  • This aid has been a contentious issue in American politics, with some arguing that it is ethnic cleansing of Palestinians and others maintaining that it is essential for Israel’s security.
  • Since Oct. 7, 2023, the Palestinian death toll has risen above 45,000 — mostly civilians, including children and journalists — however officials say that number is much higher.

Implications for American Domestic Policies and the American People:

  • Increased Military Spending: The substantial military aid to Israel contributes to increased US military spending, and diverting funds from other domestic priorities.
  • Foreign Policy Priorities: The focus on military aid to Israel shapes US foreign policy in the Middle East, and impacting relationships with other countries in the region.
  • Moral and Ethical Considerations: The human cost of the genocide and the US role in supporting it raises moral and ethical questions for the American people.
  • Economic Impact: The billions of dollars spent on military aid could have alternative uses in the US economy, such as infrastructure, education, or healthcare.

Another $8 Billion for Israel: 

The United States has recently informed Congress of another $8 billion weapons sale to Israel. This comes as Israel continues its genocide in Gaza. This significant sale raises questions about America’s role in the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people, the impact on regional stability, and the ethical implications of supplying weapons to a nation engaged in active genocide. While the specific details of the weapons included in the sale are not always immediately public, it’s likely that this package will include a range of military equipment. These could include:

  • Precision-guided missiles
  • Ammunition
  • Defense systems
  • Military aircraft or parts

    The escalating US military aid to Israel highlights the complex and contentious nature of US foreign policy in the Middle East. As the conflict continues, it is crucial for the American people to engage in informed discussions about the implications of this aid for both domestic and foreign policy priorities.

    The US provides substantial military aid to Israel compared to other countries. According to the Security Assistance Monitor, Israel received more than half of all US foreign military financing in 2022, significantly more than any other country.

    Arguments for Providing Military Aid to Israel:

    • Israel’s Security:  Aid ensures Israel can defend itself against potential threats, maintaining regional stability.
    • Shared Democratic Values:  Supporting a democratic ally like Israel aligns with US ideals and interests.
    • Strong Military Partnership:  Israel’s military capabilities and intelligence sharing benefit US national security.

    Arguments Against Providing Military Aid to Israel:

    • Perpetuating the Conflict: Aid enables Israel’s genocidal actions in Palestine, hindering a peaceful resolution.
    • Human Rights Concerns:  Human rights violations by Israel raise ethical concerns about US support.
    • Financial Costs:  The billions spent on military aid could be allocated to domestic needs or other foreign policy priorities.
    • Strained US Relations: Unconditional support for Israel could harm US relations with other Middle Eastern countries.

    The moral and ethical considerations involved in providing military aid to Israel stem from the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its human cost.

    • Alleged Human Rights Violations: Concerns arise regarding US complicity in alleged human rights abuses committed by Israel against Palestinians, including displacement, restrictions on movement, and civilian casualties during military operations.
    • Perpetuating the Conflict: Providing military aid could be seen as enabling the continuation of the conflict, hindering peaceful resolutions, and contributing to the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians.
    • Disproportionate Force: The power imbalance between Israel and Palestine, furthered by US military support, raises questions about the justness of the conflict and whether US aid contributes to disproportionate use of force.

    These considerations highlight the ethical dilemma faced by the US in balancing its support for Israel with its commitment to human rights and peaceful conflict resolution, as well as its domestic obligations.

    This is what Americans are paying for in the midst of rising homelessness, economic woes, and natural disasters:

    Democratic National Convention Kicks Off With Anti-War Protests

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    The 2024 Democratic National Convention is starting today, August 19, in Chicago. The convention will feature speeches from prominent Democrats, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz.

    The DNC is expected to focus on highlighting the Biden administration’s accomplishments and outlining the Democratic Party’s vision for the future. It will also serve as a platform to rally support for Vice President Harris and her running mate Tim Walz as they seek their own term to lead a deeply divided nation. 

    Stay tuned for more coverage of the DNC as it unfolds this week.

    The DNC will focus on highlighting the Biden-Harris administration’s accomplishments and outlining the Democratic Party’s vision for the future. Key issues will include:

    • Economy: The Biden administration’s economic policies, job growth, and inflation.
    • Healthcare:  Affordable Care Act, prescription drug costs, reproductive rights.
    • Climate Change: Environmental policies, clean energy initiatives.
    • Gun Violence: Gun control measures, safety reforms.
    • Education: Student loan debt, college affordability, K-12 education.
    • Foreign Policy:  Relationships with allies, handling of global conflicts.

    These are areas based on common Democratic priorities and current political discourse. The specific issues emphasized will likely become clearer as the convention progresses on the heels of planned pro-Palestinian protests focused on ending the on-going genocide being carried out by Israel against the Palestinian people. According to officials, the death toll since the start of the recent Oct. 7 conflict has surpassed 40,000 people, mostly civilians; children, women and the elderly.  

    Protests Disrupt DNC Delegate Party

    As the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, it’s not just party delegates and politicians making their voices heard. Anti-Israel protesters disrupted a delegate party on the eve of the convention, highlighting the range of views and concerns that will likely be present throughout the week.

    While the DNC is expected to focus on the Biden-Harris administration’s accomplishments and the Democratic Party’s vision, external demonstrations like these underscore the diverse political landscape and the challenges Democrats face in unifying their base. It remains to be seen how these protests and other demonstrations might influence the convention’s proceedings and messaging.

    Protests Continue to Shape the American Experience and Culture

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    Anti-Israel protesters blocked major thoroughfares across the US Monday, creating traffic jams for drivers trying to reach Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge according to multiple major news outlets. It’s been reported that organizers of the protest said their goal was to send a message to Boeing, because the corporation sells weapons to Israel to be used in its war with Hamas.

    “On this Tax Day, when millions are paying taxes which fund the ongoing US and Israeli bombardment of Gaza, protestors seek to take dramatic action,” the group Chicago Dissenters wrote in an Instagram post. “O’Hare International Airport is one of the largest in the country, and there will be NO business as usual while Palestinians suffer at the hands of American funded bombing by Israel.”

     

    Protests – fiercely exercised and protected by the First Amendment – have played a significant role in shaping American culture throughout history. They have been a powerful force for social and political change, and have helped to bring about important reforms and advances. These on-going global protests aim to end the genocide and deliberate starvation efforts in Gaza that started as a was between Israel and Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. The groups, including many journalists, White House staffers, State Department officials and Union leaders are also calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow aid into Gaza and other impacted regions of Palestine. 

    Here are some of the ways in which protests have shaped American culture:

    • Raising awareness of social issues: Protests have helped to raise awareness of important social issues, such as civil rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. They have also brought attention to environmental issues, economic inequality, and other pressing concerns.
    • Mobilizing people for change: Protests can mobilize people to take action and demand change. They can create a sense of community and solidarity among protesters and build momentum for social and political movements.
    • Influencing public opinion: Protests can influence public opinion and put pressure on policymakers to address certain issues. They can also help to shift the national conversation and shape the way people think about important topics.
    • Promoting social justice: Protests have been a key factor in promoting social justice and equality in the United States. They have helped to challenge discriminatory laws and policies, and have contributed to the advancement of civil rights for all Americans.
    • Preserving democratic values: Protests are a vital part of a healthy democracy. They allow people to express their dissent and demand accountability from their government. They also help to protect democratic values such as freedom of speech and assembly.

    Biden Administration Sued For Actively Supporting Israel’s Genocide of Palestinians

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    The UN’s top legal body —  the International Court of Justice (ICJ) —  that heard two days of powerful legal argument from South Africa against Israel on the crime of all crimes: genocide, is not the only legal body hearing a case of genocide. The Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) is suing the Biden administration in federal court for its complicity in the war in Gaza by supporting Israel, a state that stands accused of an attempt to “destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, in whole or in part,” as defined by the 1948 Convention on Genocide.

    This report by Caira Piriano, first published in Medium, tells the full story that many are not aware of.

    Biden Administration Lawsuit

    If you follow news about Palestine (and if you watch something other than mainstream US news), you’ll know about South Africa’s ICJ case. However, you may not be aware that the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) has sued the Biden administration in US federal court for violating the genocide convention by failing to prevent genocide and instead actively supporting it.

    Let’s take – a quick look at this case.

    👉 Who are the plaintiffs?

    The CCR is suing on behalf of a group of Palestinian individuals and organizations, including Palestinian Americans and people in Gaza. The organizations include Defense for Children International — Palestine and Al Haq, and the individuals include Ahmed Abu Artema, who started the 2019–2019 Great March of Return protest movement. All of the individuals have had family members killed in Israeli attacks.

    👉 Who are the defendants?

    The lawsuit accuses President Biden, Secretary of State Blinken, and Secretary of Defense Austin, in their official capacities.

    👉 What is the dispute about?

    The plaintiffs say that the Biden administration has enabled Israel to commit genocide, in violation of international customary law and US law, causing direct harm to the plaintiffs and their families. Actually, in its most recent filing, the CCR says that one of their plaintiffs themselves may have been killed in Gaza since the case was filed. The Biden administration has moved for dismissal, saying that this issue is a political question and cannot be decided by the courts.

    👉 What law does the CCR say the Biden admin is breaking?

    The complaint is that the defendants have “violated their duty under customary international law, as part of federal common law, to take all measures within their power to prevent Israel from committing genocide.” Confused? Stick with me.

    The US is a common law system, meaning that the law isn’t just the statutes in the US code; what’s more important is the precedent of past legal decisions and established legal principles. All this precedent and tradition together is called common law.

    Customary international law is defined as “international obligations arising from established international practices”; prohibition of genocide and failure to prevent genocide, as one such established practice, was also codified in the UN Genocide Convention. Customary international law is part of common law and can be enforced in federal courts.

    👉 What is CCR asking the court for?

    The “relief” (action) requested by the plaintiffs is basically just that the defendants stop supporting genocide in Gaza through diplomatic, military, and financial assistance. They are also seeking injunctive relief, which is basically the equivalent of the ICJ’s “provisional measures — Biden et al. must stop their violation of international law immediately while the case is pending, because allowing the attacks to continue for years while the case is decided is too risky.

    👉 How has Biden responded? 

    The Biden administration’s lawyers have moved for the case to be dismissed because they say the court can’t act on political issues. Their response doesn’t address the genocide claims at all and uses only procedural arguments.

    You can access all the case files in a very well-organized page on the CCR’s website. https://ccrjustice.org/home/what-we-do/our-cases/defense-children-international-palestine-v-biden

    March for Gaza: Thousands Rally in DC for Global Day of Action

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    Thousands rallied at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., Saturday as part of a global day of action calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war that started on Oct. 7 after Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel killing about 1,300 people.

    Since the start of the war, Israel has launched an aggressive bombardment of Gaza and other parts of Palestine in response, sending shockwaves across the world. More than 23,350 people have been killed – mostly children and women – during its retaliatory attacks on Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry. 

    Last week South Africa brought a case against Israel accusing it of committing the “crime of all crimes: genocide.”

    Judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are to decide whether Israel, in its war in Gaza, is guilty of an attempt to “destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, in whole or in part,” as defined by the 1948 Convention on Genocide.

    Freedom Plaza overflowed onto Pennsylvania Avenue with marchers chanting the popular “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” as they waved a sea of flags in support of the Palestinian people who remain under siege.

    Some marchers prayed on mats in the crowd, and outside the FBI building. Some of the speakers shared stories of losing hundred of people in their families and waiting helplessly for word on relatives surviving the night. The Biden administration has not called for a ceasefire in spite the urging of the international community, including the United Nations.