Justice for Hind Rajab Act
Summary
The Justice for Hind Rajab Act aims to address the January 2024 deaths of five-year-old Hind Rajab, her family members, and two paramedics in Gaza City. The bill proposes requiring the Secretary of State to certify whether there is credible information that the attack involved U.S.-origin weapons, U.S. citizens, or U.S.-trained personnel. If such evidence exists and suggests the incident could constitute a war crime, the bill would mandate a formal referral to the Attorney General for a criminal investigation and potential prosecution under U.S. law.
Additionally, the legislation would require the State Department to submit a detailed report to Congress regarding the circumstances of the attack and any efforts by the Israeli government to hold those responsible accountable. It also seeks to determine if the incident violated the Leahy Laws, which prohibit the U.S. from providing military assistance to foreign units that commit gross human rights violations. Finally, the bill expresses the sense of Congress that the victims' families should receive an official apology and financial compensation from the Israeli government, or from the U.S. State Department if American weapons were used.