Why it matters:
The complaint invokes Canada’s Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act and Article 146 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, obligating states to prosecute those suspected of grave breaches.
Olmert and Livni are largely criticized for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the 2008–2009 Gaza War.
The big picture:
Olmert and Livni have faced similar legal complaints in Europe, including a UK arrest warrant for Livni in 2009. The new filing comes as Canada’s RCMP(Royal Canadian Mounted Police) investigates crimes in the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza.
Key points:
Crimes including indiscriminate attacks on civilians, use of white phosphorus in populated areas, destruction of homes, mosques, medical facilities, and UN schools, extrajudicial killings, torture of detainees, and obstruction of humanitarian aid.
Livni, as foreign minister, publicly endorsed Israel’s offensives, saying Israel “responds by going wild” when attacked.
Both leaders, as members of Israel’s security cabinet, had access to operational details and authorized wartime policies.
What they’re saying:
“Universal jurisdiction exists for precisely these moments. Canada must show that no one is above the law,” said Henry Off of CLAIHR.
“War crimes and crimes against humanity have no statute of limitations,” added Natacha Bracq of HRF.
Bottom line:
Human rights groups are urging Canada to act decisively, signaling that international law must apply even to former heads of government.
Go deeper:
HRF files war crimes complaint in Germany against former Israeli PM Olmert
- A.Akbari
