Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir canceled his planned visit to New York for the United Nations Police Chiefs Summit. The cancellation was reportedly prompted by legal complaints against the minister and possible protests.
According to Israeli media, Ben-Gvir abandoned the visit after human rights groups increased their calls for demonstrations and arrests. It was emphasized that the decision followed internal security assessments regarding the legal pressures the minister could face due to his radical rhetoric.
Hind Rajab Foundation's legal initiative in the US
The Belgium-based human rights organization Hind Rajab Foundation filed a criminal complaint with the US Department of Justice against Ben-Gvir over his policies on Palestinian prisoners. The foundation also called on the New York State Attorney General to open a formal investigation.
The Hind Rajab Foundation stated that legal accountability is no longer theoretical and that it will continue to pressure US authorities to take legal steps against Ben-Gvir. Ben-Gvir's office, however, did not issue an official statement on the reason for the cancellation.
International sanctions and investigations
Ben-Gvir had previously faced international backlash. After he shared a video showing handcuffed activists from the 'Sumud Fleet' being beaten while detained at sea in May, he was barred from entering France and Ireland.
While countries such as France, Spain and Italy called for EU-wide sanctions against Ben-Gvir, judicial authorities in Italy and France launched investigations into allegations of torture against the activists.
Middle East Eye reported in May that an application had been filed with the International Criminal Court (ICC) for secret arrest warrants against Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity against Palestinians in the West Bank. International arrest warrant requests against Ben-Gvir are also increasing due to his calls for the forced displacement of Palestinians throughout the Gaza attacks and his push for a bill that would allow the execution of prisoners.
The ICC issued arrest warrants on 21 November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza.
