News|Crimes Against HumanityAustralian, Palestinian lawyers seek police probe of Israeli presidentLegal groups says Australia obliged to investigate Israeli President Herzog over his role in Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza.
Three legal organizations from Australia and Palestine have formally requested that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigate Israeli President Isaac Herzog for his alleged involvement in war crimes. This request comes as reports suggest Herzog…
Three legal organizations from Australia and Palestine have formally requested that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigate Israeli President Isaac Herzog for his alleged involvement in war crimes. This request comes as reports suggest Herzog will visit Australia in early February 2024.
The Australian Centre for International Justice (ACIJ), Al-Haq, and the Al Mezan Center for Human Rights have submitted a 10-page document outlining the allegations against Herzog. The document emphasizes Australia's obligations under international and domestic law to address credible allegations of incitement to genocide.
Rawan Arraf, Executive Director at the ACIJ, stated that Australia is legally required to act on such international findings if domestic accountability has not occurred. Arraf emphasized the potential legal consequences of allowing Herzog to enter Australia without an investigation by the AFP.
Statements from Human Rights Organizations
Shawan Jabarin, General Director of Al-Haq, highlighted comments by Herzog regarding civilians in Gaza and noted the significant loss of life during the conflict, including children and human embryos.
Three legal organizations from Australia and Palestine have formally requested that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigate Israeli President Isaac Herzog for his alleged involvement in war crimes.
Herzog is scheduled to visit Sydney on Wed, Feb 7, 2024, following an invitation by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The visit aims to honor victims of a recent mass shooting at Bondi Beach, which targeted a Jewish celebration.
However, Ohad Kozminsky, Executive Member of the Jewish Council of Australia, expressed concerns that Herzog's visit could exacerbate community tensions due to the ongoing conflict.
In response to the Bondi attack, Australia's federal parliament has enacted new gun reform and hate speech laws. The Jewish Council of Australia has voiced concerns about certain provisions in the legislation, citing potential impacts on civil liberties and migrant communities.
A petition with 60,000 signatures has been submitted, urging Australian leaders to avoid using the tragedy for political purposes. The council calls for measures that strengthen Jewish safety and protect all communities from racism and violence.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
