ICC: Killings of Palestinians in Gaza Could Constitute Crimes

Brussels, MINA – Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Fatou Bensouda has expressed “grave concern” over the violence and deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip in the context of recent mass demonstrations.

“Since 30 March 2018, at least 27 Palestinians have been reportedly killed by the Israeli Defense Forces, with over a thousand more injured, many, as a result of shootings using live ammunition and rubber-bullets,” KUNA quoted her as saying Sunday in a statement at the Hague, the seat of the ICC.

“Violence against civilians – in a situation such as the one prevailing in Gaza – could constitute crimes under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, as could the use of civilian presence for the purpose of shielding military activities,” she noted.

Bensouda reminded all parties that the situation in Palestine is under preliminary examination by her office.

“While a preliminary examination is not an investigation, any new alleged crime committed in the context of the situation in Palestine may be subjected to my Office’s scrutiny. This applies to the events of the past weeks and to any future incident,” she stated.

Referring to more planned demonstrations in the Gaza, the ICC Prosecutor said she will continue to watch the situation closely and will record any instance of incitement or resort to unlawful force.

“I urge all those concerned to refrain from further escalating this tragic situation,” she said.

“Any person who incites or engages in acts of violence including by ordering, requesting, encouraging or contributing in any other manner to the commission of crimes within ICC’s jurisdiction is liable to prosecution before the Court,” she warned. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)