Weekly News Recap (4 - 10 March 2024)
© Photo by U.S. Indo-Pacific Command
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ICC: Arrest Warrants for Russian Commanders Over Alleged War Crimes in Ukraine
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UK: British SAS Members Detained Over War Crimes Suspicions in Syria
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Liberia: Parliament Approves Establishment of War Crimes Court
- Sweden: Man Faces Daesh War Crimes Charges in Syria
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Bosnia: Milenko Macanovic Convicted for War Crimes Against Civilians
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USA: Trump’s Team Seeks New Trial and Reduction of Defamation Judgement
International Peace & Security Section
- Ukraine: Deadliest Attack on Children
- WFP: Attempts to Deliver Aid to Northern Gaza Unsuccessful
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South China Sea: Territorial Disputes Between Philippines and China Wounds Four
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UN: UN Envoy Calls for Removal of Restrictions on Afghan Women
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DRC: Number of Civilians Being Killed Amidst Conflict Increasing
International Justice Section
USA: Massachusetts Air National Guard Member Pleads Guilty to Serious National Security Breach
On 4 March 2024, Jack Teixeira, a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, admitted to disclosing highly classified military papers online, representing one of the most serious national security breaches in modern US history. Teixeira, 22, pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston after negotiating a plea agreement with prosecutors, which may result in a sentence ranging from 11 to nearly 17 years. He admitted to six counts of knowingly storing and transferring sensitive information relevant to national defence, withdrawing his previous not guilty plea from June. The allegations originate from last year’s release of information about the war in Ukraine and other national security issues, which were posted on a chat app named Discord and drew global media attention in April. Teixeira had a top-secret security clearance before his arrest and had access to hundreds of confidential documents, which he later published online or photographed, including information on allies and rivals ranging from troop operations in Ukraine to intelligence on Israel’s Mossad spy agency. In exchange for his guilty plea, prosecutors agreed not to seek additional Espionage Act charges, and Teixeira agreed to share information about the leaks to intelligence and defence officials. His sentencing date is set for 27 September, pending formal acceptance of the agreement by US District Judge Indira Talwani.
Canada: Palestinian Canadians and Human Rights Lawyers Challenge the Government’s Military Exports to Israel
On 5 March 2024, Palestinian Canadians and human rights lawyers challenged Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Melanie Joly, regarding the export of military equipment to Israel, alleging violations of both Canadian and international laws. Through a lawsuit filed in federal court, they seek to compel the Canadian government to cease issuing export permits for military goods destined for Israel, arguing that such permits breach legal obligations. The lawsuit aims to hold Canada accountable to its domestic standards and international commitments, particularly concerning its involvement in the crisis in Gaza. Recent revelations of increased military exports to Israel amid the Gaza conflict have sparked widespread criticism and protests across Canada.
ICC: Arrest Warrants for Russian Commanders Over Alleged War Crimes in Ukraine
On 5 March 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, alleging their involvement in war crimes in Ukraine, particularly targeting electric infrastructure from 10 October 2022, to 9 March 2023. These warrants, issued a second time in related to the conflict, follow a pattern of alleged attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure by Russian forces. Previously, the ICC had issued warrants for President Vladimir Putin and Children’s Commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova over war crimes charges linked to the abduction of Ukrainian children. While Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the ICC’s decision, Russia has denied targeting civilian infrastructure deliberately, insisting its actions aim to limit Ukraine’s military capabilities. However, the Geneva Conventions mandate the distinction between civilian objects and military objectives, though some argue certain civilian infrastructure could be deemed military targets.
UK: British SAS Members Detained Over War Crimes Suspicions in Syria
On 5 March 2024, five members of the British Special Air Service (SAS) were seized by British military authorities on suspicion of war crimes committed during their deployments in Syria, including the alleged assassination of a suspected jihadist two years ago. While the Ministry of Defence refrained from offering direct commentary on the ongoing investigation, it reiterated its commitment to upholding stringent standards and ensuring thorough examination of any allegations brought forward. The detained soldiers have refuted accusations of employing excessive force, asserting that their actions were justified due to perceived threats posed by the deceased individual. The SAS has maintained an active operational presence in Syria for a significant duration, predominantly engaging in clandestine activities against the Islamic State (ISIS).
Liberia: Parliament Approves Establishment of War Crimes Court
On 5 March 2024, Liberia’s lower house of parliament passed a crucial motion to establish a long-awaited war crimes court, marking a pivotal moment more than two decades after the cessation of a harrowing civil conflict. The court’s mandate encompasses the prosecution of individuals accountable for human rights violations and economic crimes during the nation’s civil wars, which resulted in an estimated 250 000 casualties between 1989 and 2003. Notably, no trials have yet been conducted for the egregious atrocities committed during these conflicts, including massacres, rape, mutilation, and the coerced enlistment of child soldiers. Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa hailed the resolution’s adoption as a significant milestone in delivering justice to the Liberian populace, while legislators expressed their jubilation through ceremonial gestures and vocal affirmations of the quest for justice. The resolution, endorsed by more than two-thirds of the house, will now undergo deliberation in the Senate before reaching President Joseph Boakai for final ratification. Boakai’s administration had previously pledged to establish a “war and economic crimes court” during his inauguration speech in January, in response to persistent demands, including those articulated by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 2009.
https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/129203-liberia-lower-house-votes-to-set-up-war-crimes-court.html
Sweden: Man Faces Daesh War Crimes Charges in Syria
On 5 March 2024, a man in his 50s from Ronneby, Sweden, was charged by a local court in Blekinge County for committing serious war crimes on behalf of Daesh terror group in Syria. The indictment accuses him of jointly executing two unarmed individuals, protected by wartime laws, during May and June 2015. The accused, unnamed in the statement, faces charges of mutilating a deceased person in public. The charges point to grave offences committed during the Syrian war. The extensive and complex investigation involved cross-border cooperation with Belgium and close collaboration with Germany, with interrogations conducted in multiple countries, according to District Attorney Reena Devgun’s press statement.
Bosnia: Milenko Macanovic Convicted for War Crimes Against Civilians
On 6 March 2024, the Supreme Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Federation entity upheld a verdict convicting Milenko Macanovic of war crimes against civilians in Kljuc in 1992. The original judgement by the Cantonal Court in Bihac found him guilty of murdering one civilian, inhumanely treating another, and sentenced him to five-and-a-half years in prison. The court determined that Macanovic, known as Macan, participated in the interrogation and brutal treatment of Bosniak civilians detained in a school gymnasium. Macanovic ordered detainees to beat each other and personally inflicted severe beatings, leading to the death of one victim. Despite Macanovic’s appeal, the Federation Supreme Court upheld the verdict, rejecting claims of incorrect assessment of facts and evidence.
https://balkaninsight.com/2024/03/06/bosnia-convicts-serb-ex-soldier-of-killing-prisoner-at-school/
USA: Trump’s Team Seeks New Trial and Reduction of Defamation Judgement
On 6 March 2024, Donald Trump’s legal team filed a motion seeking a new trial in E. Jean Carroll’s defamation case and requested a substantial reduction in the $83.3 million judgement against the former president. Trump’s attorneys argued in a federal court filing in New York that relevant evidence was excluded and the jury was improperly instructed. They claimed that limitations on Trump’s testimony influenced the jury’s decision, especially regarding his state of mind when making derogatory remarks about Carroll. The attorneys criticised the court’s handling of Trump’s testimony and disputed the jury instruction on common law malice, asserting it did not align with New York laws. They argued that the jury awards were disproportionate and driven by sympathy rather than evidence, proposing a reduced total award of no more than $36.6 million based on cited case law. Carroll’s attorney declined to comment on the filing, while Trump’s lawyers await the judge’s ruling on the matter.
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Concerns of Gaza War Spilling Over into Wider Region
On 4 March 2024, as ceasefire talks continued in Cairo, Egypt, Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed grave concern at the Human Rights Council about the escalating tensions in the Gaza conflict, warning that any small incident could ignite a wider conflict. He urged the international community to prevent further spillover of the conflict and emphasised the risks to regional stability, particularly in southern Lebanon, where militia fighters are engaging in hostilities with Israel. The conflict has already claimed nearly 200 lives in Lebanon and displaced 90 000 people. Additionally, Gaza’s health authorities reported child deaths due to malnutrition and dehydration, with United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) warning of further fatalities unless aid is increased. The toll on women in Gaza is also significant, with over 9 000 reportedly killed since the conflict began nearly five months ago. The situation highlights the critical necessity for an urgent ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to address the intensifying humanitarian crisis.
Ukraine: Deadliest Attack on Children
On 4 March 2024, the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) reported that twelve people, including five children, died in a tragic incident in Odesa, Ukraine, when a drone or its remnants struck a nine-story residential building. HRMMU head Danielle Bell emphasised the devastating impact on children and families, with three families experiencing multiple losses. The incident accentuates the continuous toll of Russia’s war on Ukraine, especially on vulnerable civilians. HRMMU staff witnessed desperate rescue efforts at the site, with survivors anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. The mission highlighted that more than 10 000 civilians have been killed and over 20 000 injured since the conflict began over two years ago, cautioning that the actual numbers could be higher. Most casualties resulted from explosive weapons with wide area effects, such as missiles, drones, and artillery shells. The tragic incident in Odesa highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilians from further harm.
https://ukraine.un.org/en/262237-ukraine-suffers-deadliest-attack-children-months-un-says
UN: South Sudan Not Ready for Elections
On 5 March 2024, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, head of UN peace operations, addressed the Security Council, stating that South Sudan is not adequately prepared for the upcoming December 2024 elections. Despite progress from the peace agreement, more effort is needed for credible elections. Lacroix emphasised the importance of peaceful elections as a shared goal among stakeholders. He noted that the peace agreement remains the primary framework for stability and highlighted the need for UN alignment with regional bodies like Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union (AU). While support for elections exists, challenges such as economic instability, political competition, and communal clashes persist. Lacroix cautioned that without careful management, elections could exacerbate tensions and violence. The situation signifies the fragility of South Sudan and the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure peaceful and credible elections.
WFP: Attempts to Deliver Aid to Northern Gaza Unsuccessful
On 5 March 2024, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) failed to deliver much needed food supplies to Northern Gaza. According to the WFP, a 14-truck convoy was turned back by the Israeli Defence Force at the Wadi Gaza checkpoint after a three-hour wait. Despite the setback, WFP is committed to finding alternative means to deliver aid. The trucks were later looted by desperate people, highlighting the severity of the situation. Road routes remain the primary option for transporting food to avert famine in northern Gaza. Airdrops were conducted as a last resort, but they are not sufficient to prevent famine. Hunger has reached catastrophic levels, with children suffering from hunger-related diseases and malnutrition. To address the crisis, more entry points into Gaza are needed, including from the north, along with the use of Ashdod port. A ceasefire is urgently required to facilitate humanitarian operations and ensure the safety of staff. With improved access and safety measures, WFP and its partners can prevent famine and provide vital aid to those in need.
https://www.wfp.org/news/wfp-food-deliveries-northern-gaza-face-further-setbacks
South China Sea: Territorial Disputes Between Philippines and China Wounds Four
On 5 March 2024, tensions escalated in the South China Sea as Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels clashed, leaving four Filipino crew members injured. Chinese ships obstructed Philippine vessels near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, leading to collisions and water cannon blasts. While China accused the Philippines of illegal intrusion, Filipino officials condemned the actions as coercion. The Philippines demanded the immediate withdrawal of Chinese vessels from the area. The incident further strained relations between the two nations, already embroiled in a long-standing territorial dispute. The South China Sea dispute is expected to be a focal point at the ongoing summit of Southeast Asian leaders in Melbourne. Both the Philippines and Vietnam plan to raise concerns over China’s aggressive actions in the region. The United States condemned China’s behaviour, reaffirming its commitment to defend the Philippines. The confrontation emphasises the challenges in reducing tensions despite diplomatic efforts. The South China Sea remains a contentious area with multiple claimants, posing risks of wider conflict and disrupting global trade routes.
UN: UN Envoy Calls for Removal of Restrictions on Afghan Women
On 6 March 2024, UN Special Representative, Roza Otunbayeva, urged the Taliban to lift restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan, emphasising the detrimental impact on their rights and well-being. She highlighted concerns over arbitrary arrests for dress code violations and the denial of access to education and work, causing significant harm. Otunbayeva reported on the Qatar talks, where the Taliban chose not to attend but expressed a desire for deeper consultations. She voiced worries about negative trends, including repression of women, public violence, and marginalisation of minorities. While acknowledging improved security since the Taliban’s takeover, she emphasised the significant challenges remaining. Afghanistan faces instability, terrorism, and opium production, alongside refugee crises. Otunbayeva noted Taliban efforts in reducing opium cultivation and fighting ISIS but stressed that sustainable progress requires addressing broader issues affecting Afghan society.
Yemen: Houthi Missile Strike Kills Three
On 6 March 2024, a Houthi missile strike on the merchant vessel True Confidence in the Gulf of Aden resulted in the deaths of at least three seafarers, according to the US military. This attack, claimed by the Houthis, caused significant damage to the ship, with the crew abandoning it. The incident occurred amid escalating tensions over Israel’s offensive in Gaza. The Houthis have been targeting international shipping in solidarity with Palestinians and against Israel’s actions. These attacks have disrupted global trade, forcing ships to take longer routes. The True Confidence, owned by True Confidence Shipping and operated by Third January Maritime, had no apparent link to the US, although it was previously owned by Oaktree Capital Management, a Los Angeles based fund. Despite US-led airstrikes, the Houthis continue to launch significant attacks, including one targeting the USS Carney. The UN called on the Houthis to cease such attacks, expressing serious concerns about the risks to life and property. The Houthis, however, vow to continue until the Gaza siege is lifted.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/3/6/suspected-houthi-attack-ship-gulf-of-aden-yemen
UN: Urgent International Intervention in Haiti Needed
On 6 March 2024, the UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, urgently appealed for international intervention as Haiti faces escalating crises, including a mass prison breakout, rampant gang violence, and a deepening humanitarian emergency. Türk emphasised the necessity of deploying the Security Council-mandated multinational security support mission without further delay to protect lives and prevent further chaos. The recent prison escape, involving over 4 500 inmates, including high-profile gang members and suspects linked to President Moïse’s assassination, poses a grave threat to national security. Gang violence has claimed over 1 000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands, exacerbating the collapse of public services, particularly the health system. Schools and businesses are shuttered, and economic activity is stifled by gang-imposed restrictions. Humanitarian organisations, like United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), emphasised on the dire situation, with violence disrupting aid delivery and leaving thousands exposed to risks. The crisis has reached a critical point, with reports of a gang leader threatening civil war if the Prime Minister does not resign. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stressed the worsening conditions, highlighting the urgent need for attention and action to prevent further deterioration.
DRC: Number of Civilians Being Killed Amidst Conflict Increasing
On 6 March 2024, Robert Mardini, Director General of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), expressed grave concern during his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding the significant increase in civilian casualties from heavy weapons in the eastern part of the country. He highlighted the unprecedented nature of the situation, with hundreds of civilians, including women and children, sustaining severe injuries in densely populated urban areas. Mardini emphasised the devastating impact of explosive weapons in civilian areas, urging all parties to the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. The conflict in eastern DRC has intensified in recent weeks between government forces and armed groups, exacerbating the suffering of civilians who have endured decades of conflict. The ICRC-supported Ndosho hospital in Goma, North Kivu, is struggling to cope with the influx of wounded civilians, many of whom require complex surgery and suffer from trauma. The hospital is operating beyond its capacity, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. Mardini emphasised on the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict and called on all parties to fulfil their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians. He emphasised that failure to do so would lead to a bleak future for millions of Congolese affected by the ongoing conflict.
Mexico: Protest Over Disappearance of Students in 2014
On 6 March 2024, in Mexico City, a protest over the 2014 disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa turned confrontational as demonstrators forcibly entered the National Palace. Using a white pickup truck from Mexico’s state electrical company, protesters knocked down the palace door during President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s press conference. Police deployed tear gas to disperse the group, and barriers were erected to prevent further intrusion. While the scene later calmed, over 100 protesters remained outside, and reports suggested some individuals involved in the door breach were arrested. President Lopez Obrador addressed the incident, expressing a commitment to not repressing the protest and pledging to continue investigating the students’ disappearance, one of Mexico’s infamous violent episodes. He accused protesters of being manipulated by rights groups opposing his government and hindering the truth’s revelation about the case, though providing no evidence. Lopez Obrador criticised the missing students’ parents’ lawyers, claiming they prevented communication and emphasised ongoing government efforts to locate the students. The Miguel Agustin Pro Juarez Human Rights Centre distanced itself from the protest’s actions, calling for respectful dialogue amid a perceived lack of communication with the government.