Israeli Ex-Security Adviser Urges IDF Soldiers to Reject Potential War Crime Orders

 

Eran Etzion, a former deputy head of Israel's National Security Council and a critic of Prime Minister Netanyahu, has voiced concern that Israel's military actions in northern Gaza may constitute war crimes. Speaking from his home in Shoresh, Etzion emphasized that Israeli soldiers should reject any orders that could lead to such crimes, reflecting his deep worry over the erosion of moral and legal standards in the ongoing conflict.

Etzion's concerns are rooted in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, which traumatized Israel, leading to widespread anger and a desire for revenge. While acknowledging the emotional impact, Etzion insists that Israel, as a sovereign state, must adhere to international law and act in line with its historical values. He warns that the current climate of revenge risks leading to actions incompatible with these standards.

As Israeli forces advance in Jabalia, Gaza, international criticism over Israel's conduct has intensified. Reports from hospitals in Jabalia describe dire conditions, with medical staff exhausted and lacking basic necessities like water and food. The UN has accused Israel of impeding aid delivery, while Israel asserts that Hamas is using civilians as human shields, complicating the military's operations. The situation has drawn legal scrutiny, with figures like Philippe Sands KC, a prominent war crimes lawyer, condemning Israel's actions as disproportionate and a violation of international law.

Etzion's call for soldiers to reject illegal orders underscores the gravity of the situation. As a former soldier and security adviser, he hopes his warning will prevent further erosion of Israel's moral standing and help avoid war crimes in a conflict that has already claimed many civilian lives.BBC