The Mizan Organization for Legal Studies and Human Rights has formally submitted a communication to the International Criminal Court (ICC) urging an investigation into alleged crimes committed by Afghan fighters in Syria. The submission outlines violations that potentially constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, committed in collaboration with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hezbollah, and Assad regime forces.
The fighters, part of the Fatemiyoun Brigade, are accused of participating in systematic acts of torture, enforced disappearance, extrajudicial killings, forced displacement, and destruction of civilian property between 2012 and 2024. These actions allegedly targeted opposition groups and civilians, violating principles of international humanitarian law, including distinction, proportionality, and precaution.
The communication highlights Afghanistan’s ratification of the Rome Statute in 2003, affirming the ICC’s jurisdiction over its nationals. Evidence presented includes testimonies from witnesses and reports by UN bodies and Syrian organizations. Violations cited include the use of internationally prohibited weapons, recruiting child soldiers, and attacking civilian and cultural sites.
The Mizan Organization calls on the ICC to open a preliminary investigation, protect witnesses, and gather evidence to ensure justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators. It also seeks collaboration with international experts and advocacy efforts to support the investigation.
This submission marks a significant step in addressing impunity for atrocities in Syria, providing hope for justice and a guarantee of non-recurrence in line with the ICC’s mandate.
