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NEWS

Ben Gvir proposes kidnapping Lebanese women and children

June 2026

"Kidnap women and children and bring them to the terrorists' prisons" — Itamar Ben Gvir, Israeli Minister of National Security

Legal comment

Ben Gvir's statement constitutes open incitement to the commission of war crimes. The abduction of civilians is expressly prohibited by Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions and constitutes a war crime under Article 8 of the Rome Statute. A serving minister who publicly invokes such practices exercises an incitement function that may entail individual criminal responsibility.

Implications

Statements from a government member — not a marginal opposition — attest that violations of international law are not a tactical error but a deliberate policy. This further strengthens the applicability of ARSIWA arts. 40-41: other States not only may, but must refuse to recognise such conduct as lawful.

Sources: Middle East Eye · Middle East Monitor · Naharnet

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