Spain debates genocide allegations
The Spanish Attorney General, Álvaro García Ortiz, has ordered an investigation into Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip following allegations of severe human rights violations, including accusations of genocide. This investigation will be conducted by a high-level working group established for this purpose.
The investigation stems from the attack on communities in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken to Gaza. As of now, nearly 50 people are still being held by Hamas.
The Spanish investigation will coordinate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the results of Spain's investigation will be made available to the ICC. Spain allows investigations into crimes against humanity even if they occur outside its borders.
The Israeli army recently initiated a war in the Gaza Strip, leading to over 65,000 deaths, including at least 18,000 children. Large parts of villages and cities in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed during the war, and the population has been repeatedly displaced.
The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip remains catastrophic. Between March and May, Israel completely blocked humanitarian aid, leading the United Nations to declare a famine. Israeli reports suggest that about half of the hostages are still alive.
The investigation team includes Dolores Delgado, the Attorney General for Human Rights and Democratic Memory, and the head of the National Court's prosecution office. The investigation aims to determine the extent of the Israeli army's guilt for severe human rights violations.
Notably, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several leaders of the Palestinian militant-cum-party Hamas last November for alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes.
This investigation will fulfill Spain's commitments in the area of international cooperation and human rights, according to García Ortiz. He stated that the events in the Gaza Strip constitute serious violations of international human rights norms and humanitarian law, and crimes under Article 607 of the Criminal Code, which defines genocide.
The investigation is not only led by García Ortiz but also by the independent commission appointed by the UN Human Rights Council chaired by South African Navi Pillay. Both investigations will work together to bring clarity and justice to the situation in the Gaza Strip.
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