Hind Rajab Foundation files complaint against 'Israeli' soldier in Italy

• HRF files criminal complaint in Italy against 'Israeli' soldier Israel Yitzhki.
• Alleged involvement in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide in Gaza.
• Complaint invokes Italy’s universal jurisdiction obligations.
• HRF calls for urgent precautionary measures to prevent escape.

The Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) has filed a criminal complaint before Italian judicial authorities against Israel Yitzhki, a member of the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF), alleging his involvement in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts of genocide during 'Israel’s' military campaign in the Gaza Strip.

The complaint was submitted to the Procura della Repubblica under the principle of universal jurisdiction, following confirmation that Yitzhki is currently present in Italy. HRF argues that, under international and Italian law, Italy is obligated to investigate and prosecute individuals suspected of serious international crimes found on its territory.

HRF’s filing cites:

• Article 146 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which establishes universal jurisdiction over grave breaches
• Article 5(2) of the UN Convention Against Torture
• The principle of aut dedere aut judicare (extradite or prosecute)

The complaint situates Yitzhki’s actions within 'Israel’s' Gaza campaign, which UN agencies and international courts have repeatedly identified as involving systemic violations of international law. HRF alleges that Yitzhki, serving in the 432nd Battalion of the Givati Brigade, participated in operations that included destruction of civilian property, attacks on residential areas, occupation of schools used as refuges, unlawful detention, and humiliation of Palestinian civilians.

The filing further asserts that these acts may constitute crimes against humanity and genocide, highlighting systematic attacks on Gaza’s civilian infrastructure that have resulted in mass casualties, widespread displacement, and deprivation of basic necessities. According to HRF, these actions align with UN findings from September 2025, which determined that 'Israeli' authorities are committing genocide in Gaza.

Given the risk that Yitzhki may leave Italy, HRF has requested urgent precautionary measures, including pre-trial detention, seizure of travel documents, and preservation of evidence.

HRF General Director Dyab Abou Jahjah emphasized, “International law is meaningless if it stops at borders… When those suspected of war crimes and genocide enter Europe, States must choose between impunity and justice. There is no third option.”