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Brazilian Court Orders Investigation of Israeli Soldier Accused of War Crimes in Gaza in Historic Move

Jan 4, 2025, 05:12 PM

A Brazilian federal court has ordered an urgent investigation into an Israeli soldier accused of war crimes in Gaza, who is currently vacationing in Brazil. The Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) filed a complaint against the soldier, alleging his participation in the mass demolition of civilian homes in Gaza as part of a systematic campaign. The court's decision, based on Article 88 of the Brazilian Code of Criminal Procedure, marks the first instance of a Rome Statute signatory directly enforcing its provisions domestically without relying on the International Criminal Court (ICC). HRF has called for the immediate arrest of the suspect, citing risks of flight and evidence tampering. The foundation presented video footage, geolocation data, and photographs as evidence of the soldier's involvement in the destruction of neighborhoods in Gaza. Families of victims have joined the case, seeking justice through legal means. HRF lawyer Maira Pinheiro stated that the individual actively contributed to the destruction of homes and livelihoods. HRF chair Dyab Abou Jahjah described the court's action as a 'historic moment' setting a powerful precedent for holding war criminals accountable.