Madrid: The Spanish Public Prosecutor's Office has announced its intention to investigate human rights violations in Gaza as part of its collaboration with the International Criminal Court (ICC). This decision was revealed on Thursday, highlighting Madrid's commitment to addressing international human rights concerns.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Spanish State Attorney General released a statement establishing a working group focused on investigating violations of international human rights law in Gaza. The primary objective is to gather evidence and present it to competent authorities, aligning with Spain's obligations towards international cooperation and human rights.
The statement emphasized that this initiative follows the recommendations of a report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Palestinian Territories, mandated by the United Nations. The report urges state parties to cooperate with the ICC's investigation conducted by its Office of the Prosecutor.
The decree from the Spanish Public Prosecutor's Office declared Madrid's obligation to provide necessary cooperation and assistance to the investigation, thereby legitimizing the initiation of an investigation within the Prosecutor's mandate. This effort aims to make international cooperation both real and effective.
The decree further stated that given the ongoing situation in the Palestinian territories, any evidence gathered in Spain, whether direct or indirect, must be incorporated into a procedural framework for future use. Collective evidence can serve as vital proof against crimes committed.
In 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity. Spain is among the countries supporting proceedings initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip.
