7am Israel rejects a genocide finding and widens its war
Sep 17, 2025
Akbar Shahid Ahmed, Senior Diplomatic Correspondent for HuffPost, delves deep into the UN's recent genocide finding against Israel and the latter's vehement rejection, citing self-defense. He analyzes the escalating ground offensive in Gaza City and the ramifications of a targeted strike in Doha, which jeopardizes Qatar's mediator efforts. The conversation reveals the complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy, shedding light on how these developments affect regional stability and the prospects for a ceasefire.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
UN Finds Genocide Based On Intent And Pattern
- The UN Commission of Inquiry concluded Israel "has been and is committing genocide" in Gaza based on legal criteria and evidence.
- They cite officials' statements and patterns of conduct as proof of genocidal intent, which is rare to establish.
Israel Rejects Findings While UN Points To ICJ Orders
- Israel rejected the report, saying it acts in self-defence and takes steps to protect civilians.
- The UN jurors highlight prior ICJ orders and warn that accountability matters for global credibility on other crises.
Gaza City Ground Offensive Risks Massive Casualties
- Israel launched a major ground offensive into central Gaza City after heavy bombardment, signaling street-by-street combat ahead.
- Akbar warns this will likely be the bloodiest battle of the war with hundreds of thousands of civilians still in the city.