Phyllis Bennis discusses how the legal definition of genocide requires both intent to destroy a group, and one of several prohibited acts, such as killing members, causing serious harm, creating destructive living conditions, preventing births, or transferring children. She argues that public statements by Israeli officials and observed actions in Gaza meet these criteria, and that intention can be inferred from official language and policy. Recognizing genocide invokes obligations under the Genocide Convention for other states to try to prevent and stop it. Her book, Understanding Palestine & Israel, transforms earlier primer material into a narrative aimed at people newly active in the ceasefire and Palestinian rights movements, explaining settler colonialism, historical context, and how Zionism developed in relation to European antisemitism and the Holocaust. Bennis traces political decisions, international alliances, and wars-especially the 1967 conflict-that shaped Israel’s military capacity and its alliance with the United States. She highlights how images and reporting from Gaza spurred a rapid, broad ceasefire movement demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access, and a halt to arms transfers enabling the assault. Student encampments, teach-ins, and shifting media coverage helped broaden public understanding. Bennis notes a sharp gap between public opinion-where many Democrats now oppose further military aid-and entrenched political leadership, and she warns that policy change usually takes time even as humanitarian urgency requires prompt action. She argues Palestinian rights must be linked to wider struggles against authoritarianism and injustice, and that sustained public pressure, disciplined messaging, and international accountability are essential to protect civilians and influence policy.
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