Egypt’s Sisi Honors Militia Fighter Accused of War Crimes in Sinai

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi honored militia fighter Ibrahim Hammad as a “martyr hero” despite allegations of his involvement in war crimes, particularly cold-blooded executions of civilians in Sinai. Human rights organizations, including the SFHR and HRW, have condemned this recognition and demand accountability for documented war crimes. The ongoing conflict in North Sinai has resulted in significant human rights abuses without due investigations or justice.

On Tuesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi honored Ibrahim Hammad, a militia fighter killed during an operation in the Sinai, by declaring him a “martyr hero.” His accolades included a tribute to his mother at a ceremony commemorating fallen armed forces members despite significant calls from human rights organizations for investigations into war crimes associated with Hammad.

Hammad died on May 10, 2022, while participating in military operations against alleged terrorists in Sheikh Zuweid, North Sinai. The Sinai Foundation for Human Rights (SFHR), a London-based human rights advocacy group, condemned Sisi’s recognition of Hammad, citing his documented involvement in cold-blooded executions of unarmed civilians as early as 2017, thus pointing to a troubling culture of impunity.

Notably, a video validated by Human Rights Watch in April 2017 illustrated Hammad’s participation in the execution of two brothers from the Rumailat tribe, showing Hammad shooting them at point-blank range. The SFHR has labeled these acts as “undeniable war crimes” that necessitate accountability; however, no legal actions were pursued against Hammad prior to his death.

The prolonged conflict in North Sinai, fueled by the Egyptian army’s engagement with the Islamic State-affiliated Sinai Province, has resulted in the displacement of thousands, with many residents now unable to return to their homes due to the establishment of buffer zones along the borders. Both the Egyptian military and militant groups have been implicated in war crimes, and despite extensive documentation, Cairo has not initiated any investigations or brought to justice those responsible for these violations.

The honoring of Ibrahim Hammad by President Sisi highlights a contentious issue surrounding accountability for war crimes in Egypt’s Sinai region. Despite overwhelming evidence against Hammad, no investigations were conducted, raising concerns about the state’s commitment to addressing human rights violations. As the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of conflict, the lack of accountability undermines justice for victims and reinforces a troubling cycle of impunity.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net