Summary of H. RES. 876: Recognizing the Genocide of the Palestinian People in Gaza

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: H. RES. 876
• Title: Recognizing the genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza
• Status: Submitted in House
• Introduced: November 13, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

H. RES. 876 aims to formally recognize and condemn the actions of the State of Israel against the Palestinian people in Gaza as genocide. The resolution cites various international laws and conventions, particularly the Genocide Convention, to support its claims and calls for accountability and action from the United States and the international community.

Key Provisions

1. Recognition of Genocide: The resolution asserts that the actions of the Israeli military constitute genocide as defined by the Genocide Convention, which includes:

   • Killing members of the group.
   • Causing serious bodily or mental harm.
   • Deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about physical destruction.
   • Imposing measures intended to prevent births.
   • Forcibly transferring children.

2. Citations of Evidence: The resolution references findings from:

   • The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry, which concluded that Israel is committing genocide.
   • The International Association of Genocide Scholars, which supports the claim of genocide against Palestinians.
   • Various human rights organizations that have documented the impact of military actions on civilians, including significant casualties and destruction of infrastructure.

3. Statistical Data: The resolution includes alarming statistics, such as:

   • Over 67,160 Palestinians killed since October 2023, with a majority being women and children.
   • Approximately 169,679 Palestinians wounded, creating a significant number of child amputees.
   • Destruction of over 500 schools and all universities in Gaza, severely impacting education.

4. Humanitarian Crisis: The resolution highlights the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including:

   • Acute food insecurity affecting over 90% of the population.
   • Severe malnutrition among children, with thousands facing life-threatening conditions.
   • Destruction of agricultural capacity, with only 1.5% of cropland remaining suitable for cultivation.

Impact

The resolution seeks to raise awareness and prompt action regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It aims to hold the U.S. government accountable to its obligations under international law to prevent and punish genocide. If passed, it could influence U.S. foreign policy and humanitarian aid decisions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Procedural Aspects

• Committee Referral: The resolution was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on the same day it was introduced.
• Next Steps: The resolution will undergo review and discussion within the committee before potentially being brought to the floor for a vote.

This resolution reflects a significant legislative effort to address and respond to ongoing humanitarian issues and allegations of genocide in Gaza, emphasizing the need for international accountability and support for affected populations.