War Crime: So far, more than 9000 people from both sides have died in the Israel-Hamas war. On October 7, approximately 1,400 Israelis were killed in attacks by Hamas. But in response to this attack, Israel started a defense operation. After the Israeli attack, about 7000 people have died in Gaza. After the widespread attack on Gaza, questions started being raised on Israel all over the world. Many countries called it a war crime and advocated action against Israel, while Israel defended its Attacks have been described as the right of defence.
What is a war crime?
Some international rules have been made for the protection of civilians during a war between any two countries or parties, but if any country violates these rules then it comes under the purview of war crimes. These laws are made during many treaties. These include the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907. War crimes violations are prosecuted at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Article 6 of the war crime violation mentions genocide, which states that if any country or any organization targets and kills people of a particular race, religious group or nationality, then action will be taken against it. Whereas Article 7 It is for the protection of citizens. If any country targets civilians in war then it will fall in the category of war crime.
How are war criminals punished?
The ICC can start an investigation against any war crime accused. Once a war crime is proven, then the joint forces start action against the top leader of that country. If this is not possible then a warrant is issued against the person responsible for the crime. After this, all ICC member countries become bound to arrest that person.