Lebanon has taken a significant step towards seeking justice for war crimes committed in the country by declaring its acceptance of the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate and prosecute crimes committed on Lebanese territory since October 7th. This move comes after Israel accused of repeatedly violating its sovereignty and committing violations of international law, particularly during cross-border conflict with Hezbollah group and ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza.
According to Human Rights Watch, this move is seen as a historic moment in the pursuit of justice. In the past six months, Lebanon has accused Israel of repeatedly violating its sovereignty and committing violations of international law. The recent investigation by Reuters found that cross-border bombings have resulted in the deaths of at least 70 civilians, including children, rescue personnel, and journalists. Among them was Issam Al-Abdullah, a Reuters correspondent who lost his life in an Israeli tank attack on October 13th.
The Lebanese caretaker government made a decision to direct the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to submit a declaration to the International Criminal Court accepting its jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes committed on Lebanese territory since October 7th. Furthermore, they requested an independent research institute report be included in their complaints to the United Nations regarding Israeli violations. The report focused specifically on Issam Al-Abdullah’s killing and was based on evidence collected from the scene as well as video and audio materials. Despite not being full members of ICC, Lebanon’s declaration would allow it to investigate crimes and hold trials within a specified time frame.
Human Rights Watch praised Lebanon’s move calling it a historic step towards seeking justice for war crimes committed in the country. They urged foreign minister Nassrine Burhan to quickly formalize this step by submitting the declaration to ICC. This action serves as a reminder that those who violate laws of war may face consequences in courtroom
