THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF DEMOCRATIC LAWYERS
DENOUNCES THE ISRAELI INVASION OF GAZA

The International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) representing lawyers and jurists in over 100 countries and with consultative status with the United Nations, ECOSOC and UNICEF 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 push for an an immediate cease fire. IADL condemns Israel's refusal to heed the resolution of the security counsel of January 8, 2009, which required an immediate cease fire. This resolution was was unanimous despite the United States abstention but Israel claims the abstention of the US allows it to ignore the opinion of the world community and claim the resolution is not binding. IADL calls on all governments to unite around ending this conflict. IADL therefore 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