The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague will investigate the killing of Catalan NGO director Emma Igual in Ukraine. This development was confirmed by Spanish foreign minister José Manuel Albares in an interview with La Sexta TV channel. Albares had requested the court to lead the inquiry as a war crime.
The responsibility of the case will lie with ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, who will personally oversee the investigation. Albares emphasized his commitment to finding those responsible for Igual’s killing before meeting with her mother.
Spain has pledged to provide the ICC with all the necessary technical and economic resources needed to carry out the investigation. Albares stated that Khan assured him of keeping him informed about the progress and findings of the inquiry.
Emma Igual, a Catalan volunteer, lost her life on September 9 in an attack on a Russian convoy in Ukraine. She was the director of the NGO Road to Relief. Igual and her team were caught in a crossfire in the Bakhmut region, north of Donetsk, while traveling in a vehicle.
On the day of the incident, the Road to Relief team departed from Slovyansk towards Bakhmut to assess the needs of civilians affected by the conflict in the town of Ivanivske, within the same region.
During the crossfire, the vehicle in which Igual was traveling was hit, flipping it over and setting it on fire. Besides Igual, the vehicle carried German medical expert Ruben Mawick, Swedish citizen Johan Mathias Thyr, and Canadian Anthony Tonko Ihnat. While Mawick and Mathias Thyr sustained severe injuries from shrapnel and burns, Ihnat’s body was discovered lifeless and later retrieved.
The ICC’s decision to investigate Igual’s killing brings hope for justice and accountability in this tragic incident. The diligent efforts of the court, along with the support offered by Spain, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the crime as a war-related offense.
The investigation will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the attack and aim to identify and prosecute those responsible for the death of Emma Igual. As the case progresses, updates will be provided by prosecutor Karim Khan to the Spanish foreign minister, ensuring effective communication and collaboration throughout the inquiry.
Emma Igual’s untimely demise serves as a reminder of the risks faced by humanitarian workers operating in conflict zones. NGOs like Road to Relief play a crucial role in providing aid and support to vulnerable populations amidst challenging circumstances. It is imperative to ensure their safety and security so that they can continue their vital work without fear of harm.
The ICC’s involvement in investigating this tragic incident underscores the global community’s commitment to upholding justice and holding accountable those who perpetrate crimes during times of conflict. Hopefully, the inquiry will provide answers and bring closure to Emma Igual’s family and loved ones, while also serving as a deterrent against future acts of violence against humanitarian workers.
