'Reproductive Genocide' in Gaza Before ICC.. Calls for Independent Investigation and Accountability

Arab and international human rights and legal organizations submitted an official briefing to the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, calling for a specialized investigation into crimes of reproductive genocide in Gaza and throughout Palestine.

The organizations stated that the violations extended beyond the destruction of health facilities, encompassing maternity hospitals, fertility and in vitro fertilization centers, and the targeting of pregnant women and newborns. They also highlighted the destruction of the essential health and humanitarian conditions necessary for life and reproduction, noting the destruction of the Al-Basma Fertility Center and the loss of reproductive samples and materials, as well as the collapse of pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care services.

The organizations urged an examination of whether Article 6 of the Rome Statute, concerning the crime of genocide, applies, alongside investigations into potential crimes against humanity and war crimes. They called for a dedicated investigative axis focused on violations related to reproductive health, including the destruction of fertility centers and childbirth facilities, determining the fate of reproductive samples, and assessing the impact of restrictions on the entry of medical supplies.

They emphasized that targeting reproductive health constitutes an infringement on the rights to life, health, and reproduction, and poses a threat to the future of Palestinian society and its coming generations. They considered that these acts may fall under the crime of genocide if the specific intent required by law is established, and called on the Court to conduct an independent and comprehensive investigation and to ensure accountability.