The International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) has on December 29, 2008, and January 2, 2009 condemned the Israeli aggression against the people of the Gaza Strip and called for the international community to stop any further aggression, and take action to hold Israel accountable for its war crimes.
IADL now denounces the invasion of Gaza by Israel. This invasion has compounded the illegal aggression of the aerial bombardment. The invasion and continued bombardment has caused the death of hundreds of civilians and wounding of thousands. Israeli actions violate international law especially the Fourth Geneva Convention through the collective punishment of the whole Gazan population and contrary to its duties under the Fourth Geneva Convention to protect the citizens of an occupied territory. There has been massive destruction of Gazan infrastructure. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is approaching catastrophic levels. Reports that Israel has used white phosphorus and other weapons of questionable legality are highly disturbing. The bombing of UN facilities is clearly illegal.
IADL condemns the refusal of Israel and the United States for an immediate cease fire. IADL condemns Israel’s refusal to heed the resolution of the Security Council of January 8, 2009, which required an immediate cease fire. This resolution was adopted unanimously. The abstention of the United States does not affect its binding character, whatever Israel claims in order to justify ignoring the opinion of the world community. IADL calls on all its members to urge the governments of their respective countries to unite around ending this conflict. IADL reiterates its call for the United Nations including the General Assembly to do whatever is necessary to end the hostilities and to take steps to hold Israel accountable for its crimes.
Issued, January 8. 2009
Jitendra Sharma, President
Jeanne Mirer, Secretary General