Gaza Court: An International Human Rights Initiative to Investigate Occupation Crimes

The "Gaza Court" initiative was launched in November 2024 in London, led by Richard Falk, with the aim of investigating war crimes committed by the occupying state against the Palestinian people since October 7, 2023. This initiative represents a response to the demands of human rights activists and academics from around the world.

The court was established in response to a request made by Turkish activists during the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum in May 2024. The request was directed to Falk and his wife, Hala Elfer, where the independence of the initiative from any governmental influence was emphasized.

Falk, known for his critical stance against the occupation, confirmed that the United Nations and the United States showed no desire to stop the aggression against Gaza. From here, planning began to organize the court as a civil body aimed at achieving justice.

In October 2024, the court began its preparatory meetings with the attendance of about 100 people, and the initiative was officially launched in November of the same year. In May 2025, the court began its public sessions in Sarajevo to gather evidence and hear testimonies from victims.

The "Gaza Court" aims to create an alternative and independent platform to achieve justice for the Palestinian people, seeking to investigate serious human rights violations, including genocide, and document historical events.

The structure of the court consists of a presidential committee comprising 8 members, in addition to 3 main chambers that carry out the work: the International Law Chamber, the International Relations Chamber, and the History and Philosophy Chamber.

The court relies on individual donations and support from international organizations, while ensuring transparency in the management of financial resources. Many Palestinian non-governmental organizations also participate in the court's activities.

The court seeks to utilize the political tools available within the United Nations, including reviving the Union for Peace resolution, as a means to break the international political deadlock in addressing the crimes committed in Palestine.