Arabic version: محكمة تشيلية تنظر في قضية جرائم حرب ضد قناص إسرائيلي سابق
A Chilean court is considering a criminal complaint against Rom Kovtun, a former Israeli army sniper who served in Gaza during Israel’s more than two-year-long genocide on the coastal enclave and the Palestinian people. The case has gained traction due to Kovtun’s social media posts, which revealed his presence in Chile, thus invoking the principle of universal jurisdiction. Kovtun served in the Israeli 424th Shaked Battalion and has been linked to significant civilian casualties during military operations in Gaza.
According to Al Jazeera, the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), named after a Palestinian girl killed in Gaza, has spearheaded the legal action against Kovtun. The foundation has compiled evidence largely drawn from social media, showcasing the activities and alleged atrocities committed by Israeli soldiers, including Kovtun.
Legal experts indicate that Chile’s incorporation of the International Criminal Court’s Rome Statute into its domestic law allows for universal jurisdiction in cases of war crimes. Pablo Andres Araya, a lawyer with the HRF, emphasized that this legal framework applies when it is clear that the person accused of these crimes will not be tried in his or her country of origin, a situation he believes applies to Kovtun.
The allegations against Kovtun include his involvement in a siege of the al-Shifa hospital in Gaza, which allegedly played a key role in the mass death of civilians and destruction that ensued, leading to the death of an estimated 500 doctors, nurses and patients, including newborn babies. This siege, which took place between March and April 2024, has been characterized as part of a broader strategy that resulted in widespread humanitarian crises.
Chile has a significant Palestinian diaspora and is known for its sympathy toward the Palestinian cause. This cultural backdrop has led to a growing sentiment against the presence of former Israeli soldiers in the country. However, reporters note that the legal proceedings against Kovtun will hinge on judicial processes rather than public opinion, with the case expected to unfold over an extended period.
As the legal battle progresses, it remains uncertain how the case will impact Kovtun’s future in Chile. The HRF is committed to pursuing justice, but the complexities of international law may prolong the proceedings, potentially allowing Kovtun to leave the country before any resolution is reached.
