Egyptian President Sisi honored Ibrahim Hammad, a militia fighter accused of war crimes, as a ‘martyr’ during a memorial event. Human rights groups, including the Sinai Foundation for Human Rights, condemned this act, citing documented war crimes involving Hammad. Despite substantial evidence, the Egyptian state has not pursued accountability for such violations, maintaining a troubling pattern of impunity.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi commemorated Ibrahim Hammad, a militia fighter labeled a “martyr” despite allegations of war crimes linked to his actions in North Sinai. At an annual tribute to fallen armed forces members, Sisi honored Hammad, who died on May 10, 2022, during operations against alleged terrorists, and presented a reward to his mother. Amid global scrutiny, Hammad’s designation as a hero has prompted backlash from human rights organizations.
The Sinai Foundation for Human Rights (SFHR), a London-based group advocating accountability, condemned Sisi’s remarks, arguing they diminish the plight of war crime victims. They highlighted that both the SFHR and international bodies like Human Rights Watch have documented Hammad’s involvement in the field executions of unarmed civilians in 2017, asserting, “This act represents a severe insult to the victims and their families and reinforces the policy of impunity.”
Evidence from a video verified by Human Rights Watch illustrates Hammad’s participation in the execution of two brothers from the Rumailat tribe, raising serious concerns about war crimes. Despite the existence of this evidence, there has been a notable absence of investigation or legal repercussions regarding his actions before his death, underscoring a lack of accountability from the state.
Hammad continued his military involvement until his demise, highlighting a troubling trend where the state appears to protect individuals accused of human rights abuses rather than pursuing justice. The Egyptian army, supported by local tribes, has engaged in a prolonged conflict against the Islamic State-affiliated Sinai Province from 2013 to 2022, leading to the displacement of thousands of local residents.
Throughout the ongoing conflict, human rights groups have documented numerous war crimes, yet the Egyptian government has not initiated any investigations into these violations. Despite declaring the Islamic State’s defeat, the government has provided amnesty to its combatants, reflecting a troubling pattern of impunity in the region.
The recent honoring of Ibrahim Hammad by President Sisi exemplifies the ongoing controversy surrounding accountability for human rights violations in Egypt. Despite allegations of his involvement in war crimes, the government’s failure to investigate such claims perpetuates a culture of impunity. The situation in North Sinai remains dire, with the local population bearing significant burdens from the conflict and its aftermath, emphasizing the critical need for justice and accountability in Egypt.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
