What’s happening:
Israel’s Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara and IDF Chief Military Advocate General MG Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi highlighted Israel’s rigorous internal investigative measures regarding incidents during the Gaza conflict. In response to the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) assertions, they underscored Israel’s sovereign legal system by revealing that 70 investigations have been initiated into suspected criminal activities by Israeli forces.
Why it matters:
This stance reinforces Israel’s commitment to justice and its ability to address potential violations internally, countering external accusations. The strong message asserts Israel’s legal and moral authority, distinguishing its defensive actions from the tactics of terrorist organizations like Hamas.
What they’re saying:
Focus on accountability:
Attorney General Baharav-Miara, speaking at the Israel Bar Association conference, emphasized Israel’s willingness to prosecute its leaders if necessary, rebuffing the need for ICC intervention. MG Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi detailed ongoing Military Police investigations into wartime incidents.
Criticism of the ICC:
Baharav-Miara aimed sharp criticism at ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan for equating Israeli leaders with Hamas terrorists, calling it a “moral failure.” She stressed the impartiality and robustness of Israel’s judiciary, advocating that it be allowed to handle such cases without external interference.
Moral contrasts:
Highlighting Hamas’s violations of international norms, Baharav-Miara defended Israel’s military actions as lawful and directed against terrorist threats, not civilians. She condemned accusations against Israel of genocide as “outrageous” and a misrepresentation, reaffirming that Hamas, not Israel, perpetuates suffering in Gaza by exploiting its own populace.
Specific incident under investigation:
Addressing a recent Israeli strike in Rafah alleged to have caused civilian casualties, Tomer-Yerushalmi assured that the IDF regrets civilian harm and is committed to thoroughly reviewing the incident. She reiterated that such investigations are conducted with professional independence, separate from combat operations.
Conclusion:
Israel reiterates its capability and resolve in independently managing legal and ethical aspects of its defensive operations, maintaining a clear moral and legal distinction between its actions and those of terrorist groups like Hamas. This assertion stands as a robust reply to international criticisms, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to legitimate warfare and justice.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.