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Brazilian Court Orders Probe Into Israeli Soldier for November 2024 Gaza War Crimes Under Rome Statute

Jan 4, 2025, 08:46 PM

A Brazilian federal court has ordered an urgent investigation into an Israeli soldier accused of committing war crimes in Gaza. The soldier, currently in Brazil as a tourist, is alleged to have participated in the destruction of residential blocks in Gaza using explosives in November 2024, outside of combat zones. The case was brought forward by the Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), which submitted over 500 pages of evidence, including videos, photos, and geolocation data, to substantiate the accusations. The HRF claims the acts constitute genocide and crimes against humanity under international law. Judge Raquel Soares Charelli issued the order, citing Article 88 of the Brazilian Code of Criminal Procedure. The court's decision is considered a landmark in international law enforcement, as Brazil, a signatory to the Rome Statute, directly invoked its provisions. The HRF has also requested the soldier's immediate arrest to prevent flight or evidence tampering. The investigation is being conducted under the jurisdiction of Brazil's Federal Police.