Far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s minister of national security, has provoked controversy by ordering soldiers to shoot “terrorists” even when they do not represent a threat to them. CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
His directives may result in war crimes and human rights abuses and go against to the Israeli army’s and police’s codes of conduct.
According to Al Jazeera, Ben-Gvir made the controversial remarks during a visit to the occupied West Bank, where he met with Israeli army officers. He reportedly said:
“You have complete backing from me. When your life is in danger or see a terrorist – even if he does not endanger you – shoot. I have your back.”
His office later tried to backtrack on his statement, claiming that he had told Border Guards to shoot only “armed terrorists”. However, this clarification did not appease the critics, who accused him of inciting violence and hatred against Palestinians.
Ben-Gvir’s comments have also been used as evidence of Israel’s genocidal intent by lawyers representing South Africa at the International Court of Justice.
The court is currently hearing a case brought by several African countries against Israel for its alleged apartheid policies and crimes against humanity. Israeli officials have since tried to be more cautious with their language, but their actions on the ground have not changed. CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Leave a Reply