Collective punishment is a war crime. Israel is doing it anyway

Israel Katz made remarks this week that solidified something legal experts have long stated: Israel is collectively punishing the people of Gaza.

The defence minister published a video directly addressed to “the residents of Gaza”, issuing a “last warning”. 

“Soon, the evacuation of the population from combat zones will resume, and what follows will be far more severe: you will pay the full price,” he warned. 

He called on Palestinians in the enclave to return Israeli captives and expel Hamas. “The alternative is utter destruction and devastation.” 

Collective punishment - defined as an action taken against a group in response to an act committed by individuals thought to be part of that group - is a war crime. 

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