Human rights lawyers seek Netanyahu’s arrest on Argentine soil

Human rights lawyers in Argentina announced on August 29 that they have filed a criminal complaint in the country’s federal courts seeking the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit Argentina. The move comes amid media reports suggesting a possible — but unconfirmed — visit in September.

The complaint, submitted to Argentina’s federal courts, calls for Netanyahu’s arrest and an investigation into Israeli political and military authorities for an incident on March 23, in which 15 people were killed, including first responders aiding victims of a bombing.

The filing, reviewed by Reuters, alleges that Netanyahu bears criminal responsibility as a co-perpetrator of war crimes, including intentionally causing death by starvation, as well as crimes against humanity such as homicide, persecution, and other inhumane acts.

The complaint was filed by Argentine human rights lawyer Rodolfo Yanzon and Raji Sourani, director of the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights.

Although media reports suggest Netanyahu may travel to Argentina in September, the Argentine government has not confirmed the visit. Clarín newspaper reported that Netanyahu may instead request a meeting with President Javier Milei while both leaders are in New York for the United Nations General Assembly at the end of September.

Earlier in August, an arrest warrant for Netanyahu had been filed in Argentine federal courts by the Association of State Workers (ATE) and the human rights organisation HIJOS.

Netanyahu is facing increasing international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in thousands of Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement.

Israel has also faced genocide accusations at the World Court, while the International Criminal Court has separately issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza. Israel and Netanyahu have denied all charges.

By Tamilla Hasanova