Press Releases

Over 30 human rights organizations and figures send ICC an urgent memorandum on delays in proceedings for arresting war criminals

Over 30 human rights organizations and figures send ICC an urgent memorandum on delays in proceedings for arresting war criminals

 

Over 30 human rights organizations and prominent figures recently submitted an urgent memorandum to the International Criminal Court (ICC) expressing deep concern over significant delays in the proceedings related to the arrest of Israeli officials accused of war crimes.

The memo calls on the court for urgent ruling of arrest warrants to halt the ongoing genocide in Gaza, emphasizing that delays can reinforce impunity and foster further crimes.

The memo notes the brutal attack on the worshippers' prayer area in Gaza early on August 10, 2024, which resulted in the killing of over 100 Palestinians and injuries to hundreds more. It argues that this attack constitutes a war crime and demands that the court expedite arrest warrants for all those responsible.

The memo also highlights the ongoing delays by ICC since Palestine's accession to the Rome Statute, which exacerbates the suffering of civilians and strengthens the position of the occupying forces.

The memo confirms that the International Court of Justice has recognized Gaza as an occupied territory, reinforcing human rights advocates' demands for decisive and prompt action by the International Criminal Court to ensure accountability for those responsible and to protect civilians.

Read more : /assets//letter-for-icc.pdf

The Palestinian Association for Human Rights (Witness)August 24, 2024R