Israeli Press on Trial for Refusing to Inform Israeli Soldiers of War Crimes

The Supreme Court in Jerusalem will hear Gush Shalom’s appeal
against the Israeli Broadcasting Authority. It concerns the ads which
Gush Shalom tried to place on Israeli radio last May,
and which were rejected by the IBA. The ads address soldiers with
information as to which acts are defined as war crimes by international
law. Soldiers obeying orders to perpetrate such acts may at some point
face international prosecution.

01.09.02

On Wednesday, Jan.9, at 11 AM, the Supreme Court in Jerusalem will
hear Gush Shalom’s appeal against the Israeli Broadcasting Authority.

It concerns the ads which Gush Shalom tried to place on Israeli radio last May,
and which were rejected by the IBA.

The ads address soldiers with
information as to which acts are defined as war crimes by international law.

For example: shooting unarmed civilians and destruction of
homes are both on the international black list.

Soldiers obeying orders to
perpetrate such acts may at some point face international prosecution.

The ads made reference both to the situation in the occupied territories and
to the former “South Lebanon Army” which acted under Israeli responsibility
and whose members are now for example considered war criminals in
Canada (and not only there).

The IBA claims that the ads consituted political propaganda which it is
forbidden to broadcast by its bylaws.

Gush Shalom’s lawyer Eran Lev argues
that informing soldiers and civilians in general of the prevailing situation of
international law is an important public service and by no means propaganda.

For more information:

Adam Keller: +972-3-5565804 / +972-56-709603 / +972-56-709604

Guy Tatsa: +972-3-5290572 / +972-58-356030

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