Spain's State Attorney General orders probe into genocide allegations in Gaza

Spain's State Attorney General, Álvaro García Ortiz, has ordered an investigation into whether genocide is taking place in Gaza.

The proceedings were initiated at the request of Dolores Delgado, the Chief Prosecutor for Human Rights and Democratic Memory, following her review of a report submitted in June by Spain's National Police.

The report outlines facts that may constitute crimes against the international community committed by the Israeli army in Gaza.

The investigation aims to collect and preserve evidence of possible violations of international human rights law, ensuring it is available to the appropriate authorities.

The decree initiating the investigation notes that two cases are currently underway at international courts – one at the International Court of Justice and another led by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

It also highlights Spain's duty to cooperate in accordance with its signed laws and treaties.

The investigation aligns with recommendations in a report by the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Palestine, which urges states to cooperate with the investigation conducted by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

Increased pressure

Catalan and Spanish leaders have increased pressure on Israel in recent days.

After pro-Palestine supporters forced the last stage of La Vuelta cycling race in Madrid to be halted, Catalan President Salvador Illa said that "what is happening in Gaza is a genocide," and criticized right-wing parties that "continue to deny it" adding that to do so is to "deny reality." 

Last week, Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez announced nine measures to support Gaza, including an arms embargo on Israel, an entry ban on "genocide promoters" and outlawing cargo vessels carrying weapons from transiting Spanish ports.

Spain officially recognized the State of Palestine in May 2024.