An Israeli army reservist, Eitan Gilboa, accused of war crimes in Gaza by the Hind Rajab Foundation, has likely left India where he was vacationing, according to a lawyer involved in the case. The foundation filed a complaint seeking his arrest.
This case highlights the potential for international legal action against individuals accused of war crimes, even while on holiday, and raises questions about India's commitment to enforcing international humanitarian law amidst its growing ties with Israel.
An Israeli army reservist, Eitan Gilboa, who was vacationing in India and accused of war crimes by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), has likely fled the country. The HRF filed a complaint with Indian authorities seeking Gilboa's arrest for alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza, citing evidence of him documenting the demolition of civilian homes in Khan Younis and Rafah. The foundation stated these actions violate the Fourth Geneva Convention and India's Geneva Conventions Act of 1960. A lawyer involved in the case described India's response as 'tepid' and indicated Gilboa likely departed India shortly after the complaint was lodged. The HRF has been campaigning globally to prosecute alleged Israeli war crime suspects, having filed over 90 complaints in 30 jurisdictions since its formation in 2024. India has become a popular destination for Israelis after completing military service, with tens of thousands traveling there annually. The complaint against Gilboa is the first of its kind in India, occurring amidst strengthening India-Israel relations, which were recently upgraded to a Special Strategic Partnership.