Madrid – Spain will investigate alleged human rights violations in Gaza to support the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials over suspected war crimes, reports 24brussels.
The attorney general announced the formation of a working team aimed at examining these violations of international human rights law in Gaza.
“The team will gather evidence and make it available to the competent body, thereby fulfilling Spain’s obligations regarding international cooperation and human rights,”
he added. This move comes amid escalating tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The ICC issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for two high-ranking Israeli officials, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant. They face accusations of committing war crimes, specifically starvation as a method of warfare, and crimes against humanity, which include murder and persecution.
What charges do ICC warrants bring against Israeli leaders?
The charges stem from the severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, which have raised international concerns about Israel’s conduct during military operations. The ICC’s investigation aligns with a broader push for accountability regarding human rights violations in the region.
What was the conclusion of the UN inquiry about Israel’s actions?
Furthermore, the United Nations Commission of Inquiry reported that Israel has been implicated in acts of genocide against the Palestinian population in Gaza. The commission specifically cited Netanyahu as instigating this violence, with the intent to eliminate the Palestinian people.
A comprehensive legal analysis by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry indicated that genocide is actively occurring in Gaza.
“Genocide is happening in Gaza,”
stated Navi Pillay, chair of the commission and a former judge at the ICC, emphasizing that the responsibility for these atrocities squarely rests with the highest levels of Israeli authority.
“The responsibility for these atrocity crimes lies with Israeli authorities at the highest echelons, who have orchestrated a genocidal campaign for almost two years now with the specific intent to destroy the Palestinian group in Gaza,”
What measures has Spain taken against Israel so far?
Spain’s recent actions reflect a broader government initiative, advocated by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, aimed at preventing what has been termed genocide in Gaza. The Spanish government has instituted several measures, including a total arms embargo against Israel, restrictions on the transit and importation of goods linked to illegal settlements, and heightened humanitarian aid for Palestinians.
Additionally, Spain is limiting the entry of individuals suspected of involvement in war crimes, underscoring its commitment to human rights and international legal standards.
