Richard Falk: Diplomacy is a cover for the continuation of genocide in Gaza

Professor Richard Falk, in an exclusive interview with Yeni Şafak at the Gaza Tribunal, argued that an ongoing genocide in Gaza is being masked by diplomatic efforts presenting an illusion of peace.

He describes a population surviving in a "wasteland," deeply traumatized by years of warfare, immense human loss, and the destruction of their homes. Falk contends that current diplomacy acts as a cover for this continued genocide, as the cease-fire was achieved not through inclusive negotiation but through a threat of intensified violence against Hamas.

He draws a parallel to criticize this "threat diplomacy," suggesting it sets a dangerous international precedent. Falk compares the ultimatum given to Hamas to a hypothetical scenario where Russia could threaten Ukraine with nuclear devastation to force surrender. He believes that legitimizing such tactics is a destructive way to manage global affairs.

Finally, Falk clarifies that the tribunal he references is an initiative driven by a "jury of conscience" focused on justice beyond strict legal frameworks. While it considers legal rulings from bodies like the International Court of Justice, its broader goal is to achieve a solution grounded in Palestinian self-determination. It also seeks to ensure that the parties responsible for the devastation are held accountable and bear the burden of reconstruction, rather than shifting that responsibility to uninvolved Arab or other nations.