Investigation Launched Into Israel's Elite 'Ghost' Sniper Unit for Gaza War Crimes

Photo : AFP

A Belgian court has initiated an investigation into allegations of war crimes involving an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Belgian Federal Prosecutor's Office is focusing on a dual Belgian-Israeli national, in his early twenties, who serves in the IDF’s elite Multidimensional "Ghost" (Refaim) sniper unit. This soldier was born and raised in a suburb of Brussels.

The investigation arises from accusations that the soldier targeted unarmed civilians in the Gaza Strip, with complaints suggesting that non-combatants were intentionally shot, thereby violating international laws designed to protect innocent lives during armed conflict.

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The complaint that triggered this inquiry was filed by a local advocacy group, which seeks accountability in instances of alleged war crimes. Belgian law permits the prosecution of its citizens for offenses committed abroad, enabling this investigation to proceed.

On Friday, the Belgian Federal Prosecutor's Office confirmed the ongoing investigation, stating its purpose is to ascertain whether the alleged war crimes attributed to the sniper actually took place.

This inquiry follows a report by Palestinian journalist Younis Tirawi, who accused the Refaim sniper unit of deliberately targeting civilians. Tirawi claims that his findings were supported by a senior American officer serving in the unit, who purportedly provided evidence and detailed accounts of instances where the sniper unit opened fire on civilians without any immediate threat to IDF personnel.

The Refaim Unit, to which the soldier under investigation belongs, has reportedly been active in Gaza since October 2023. This elite Israeli military unit consists of 21 soldiers, including members from various nationalities. In addition to the Belgian soldier, the unit reportedly includes three Americans, two French citizens, one German, and one Italian, among others.

The allegations against the Belgian sniper are heavily based on interviews conducted by Tirawi, who claims that the senior American officer provided unsettling testimony about the situation in Gaza. The officer allegedly compared the region to the biblical city of Sodom, which faced destruction due to its perceived sins.

In particularly controversial remarks, the officer is said to have referred to Gaza's residents as "Amalekites," a term drawn from the Old Testament that has historically been used to describe enemies of the Israelites.

As the investigation unfolds, it raises significant questions about accountability for actions taken during armed conflict and the legal responsibilities of soldiers, particularly those with dual nationality. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader discourse surrounding military conduct in conflict zones.

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