The Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) has filed a legal complaint with Cypriot authorities seeking the arrest of Israeli soldier Sharon Dawit, a Sergeant in the 424th Infantry Battalion “Shaked/Almond” of the Givati Brigade. The filing accuses Dawit of direct involvement in torture, war crimes, and genocide committed during Israel’s military operations in Gaza. It remains unclear how Cypriot authorities will respond or whether they will uphold their obligations under international law.
The complaint, submitted on November 11, 2025 by human rights lawyer Nikoletta Charalambidou on behalf of HRF, is based on the Foundation’s investigative report. The report includes verified evidence of Dawit participating in the humiliation of Palestinian detainees, including a photograph showing him posing over a naked, blindfolded, and handcuffed man. HRF says this constitutes torture and degrading treatment under international law.
Dawit served with the Givati Brigade from December 2023 to September 2024, during which he allegedly took part in operations involving torture, destruction of civilian property, forced displacement, and psychological abuse. In January 2024, Dawit posted an image on Instagram showing a naked Palestinian man kneeling before him while he sat armed. Digital forensic analysis confirmed the image depicts an act of torture and inhuman treatment in violation of international law.
Legal basis
The HRF filing calls on Cypriot authorities to act under Article 5(1)(e)(v) of the Cypriot Criminal Code, which allows universal jurisdiction over war crimes and crimes against humanity committed outside Cyprus. The submission also references Cyprus’s obligations under the Rome Statute, the Geneva Conventions, and national law to prosecute individuals suspected of torture.
kneeling before him.
Patterns of abuse & humiliation
HRF’s investigation highlights that the Givati Brigade, among the first units to enter Gaza after October 7, 2023, was involved in systematic attacks on civilians, looting, forced displacement, and collective humiliation. The photograph of Dawit reflects broader institutional practices rather than isolated incidents.
Cyprus must not become a safe haven for criminals
“Cyprus must decide what side of history it stands on,” said Dyab Abou Jahjah, Director General of the Hind Rajab Foundation.
“If suspected war criminals can land on European soil, holiday freely, and leave without consequence, then Europe’s commitment to justice is an illusion. Cyprus cannot become a safe haven for perpetrators of genocide - and this filing is a test of its resolve to uphold international law.”
HRF officials emphasise the legal and moral importance of the case. Natacha Bracq, Head of Litigation, said the evidence shows a system built on humiliation and domination. The Foundation stresses that the case is part of a wider effort to end impunity for crimes committed in Gaza and to enforce accountability wherever perpetrators are found.
The announcement concludes that HRF continues to pursue legal action across Europe and at the International Criminal Court, using forensic evidence, open-source intelligence, and witness testimonies. Bracq added, “Justice begins when impunity ends. Our work is to bridge that gap with evidence, law, and the courage to act where others remain silent.”