Istanbul: Richard Falk, former UN special rapporteur on Palestinian human rights, concluded the final session of the Gaza Tribunal in Istanbul by dedicating the people’s tribunal to Palestinians enduring suffering from decades of displacement and occupation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Falk described the proceedings as ‘inspired by the Palestinian’s heroic struggle of resilience and resistance,’ emphasizing that the tribunal honors Palestinians worldwide, particularly those in refugee camps who have been indirectly suffering for years. He commended the international Jury of Conscience and contributors to the tribunal’s year-long process, noting that the final findings offer a comprehensive and clear articulation of the tribunal’s aims. Falk referred to the tribunal’s efforts as a ‘glimmer of light in what has been a dark period in human history.’
Falk criticized attempts to downplay the crisis in Gaza, stating that ‘the crime of crimes has been committed,’ and stressed that the Palestinian tragedy dates back a century. He presented the Gaza Tribunal’s ‘Istanbul Statement,’ declaring the situation in Gaza as an ongoing genocide and highlighted it as a ‘historic moment of darkness’ in pursuit of justice.
The statement warned of the consequences if Israeli perpetrators and their enablers escape justice, marking this as a watershed moment in world history. The tribunal, which convened sessions in Sarajevo in May, applauded the findings of the Jury of Conscience and committed to implementing them fully. It documented accounts of mass civilian deaths and systematic abuses, describing them as ‘accelerated genocide,’ and warned of ongoing genocide in Palestine.
The tribunal rejected proposals from US President Trump and French President Macron to restructure Gaza’s governance, arguing that they imply impunity for Israeli actions and impose colonial control. The statement concluded with a call for international accountability, urging boycotts, sanctions, public protest, and a demand for justice and freedom for Palestine.
The four-day public session at Istanbul University marked the culmination of efforts by international jurists, scholars, and civil society representatives to document Israel’s alleged crimes against Palestinians. The tribunal consolidated findings across thematic chambers, heard expert presentations on humanitarian issues, and concluded with reflections on its work. Presided over by Falk, the Gaza People’s Tribunal sought to create a comprehensive record of what participants assert are genocide, apartheid, and systemic international law violations in Gaza.