Government Defends Expulsion Amid Allegations of Ignoring International Justice
Italy has come under fire for deporting Ossama al-Masri, a Libyan warlord wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC), instead of handing him over to face charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The decision has ignited criticism from human rights advocates and lawmakers, who accuse the government of undermining its international obligations.
Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi defended the expulsion during a Senate session on Thursday, stating that al-Masri’s removal was necessary for “urgent security reasons.” He described the decision as a protective measure, although he declined to provide further details, promising to elaborate in an upcoming address to lawmakers.
Al-Masri, also known as Ossama Anjiem, is accused by the ICC of committing atrocities in Libya’s Mitiga prison starting in 2015. These charges, which include murder, torture, and rape, carry the possibility of life imprisonment. The ICC issued a warrant for his arrest and had informed member states, including Italy, of his presence in Europe.
Al-Masri was arrested in Turin last weekend after attending a football match. However, Italy’s Court of Appeals later ordered his release, citing procedural errors in the arrest. Following the court’s decision, al-Masri was flown back to Tripoli aboard an Italian government aircraft, where he received a hero’s welcome.
Italy Accused of Failing to Uphold ICC Mandate
The ICC has expressed concern over Italy’s decision to deport al-Masri instead of cooperating with the warrant. The court had instructed Italy to notify it immediately if any issues arose during the arrest or extradition process. Despite this, Italy repatriated al-Masri, prompting accusations that it ignored its commitments to international justice.
The Rome Court of Appeals explained that the Justice Ministry, led by Carlo Nordio, should have been notified before al-Masri’s arrest. As the institution responsible for managing Italy’s relations with the ICC, the Justice Ministry’s involvement was reportedly bypassed, complicating the case.
Lawmakers have demanded an explanation from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, urging her to address parliament regarding the government’s handling of the case. Critics argue that the expulsion undermines global efforts to bring war criminals to justice and sets a concerning precedent.
Human Rights Concerns Over Libyan Detention Abuses
Human rights organizations have condemned Italy’s decision, citing well-documented abuses in Libyan detention centers. These facilities are notorious for inhumane conditions, including torture, sexual violence, and other severe rights violations.
Al-Masri has been accused of overseeing these abuses, particularly in the Mitiga prison, where detainees, including migrants, were subjected to brutal treatment. By deporting him, critics argue, Italy has shielded him from accountability and failed to support the ICC’s mission to address such crimes.
The expulsion has drawn widespread condemnation, with human rights advocates warning that it highlights a troubling lack of commitment to international law and human rights protections. Italy’s actions, they say, send the wrong message about accountability for atrocities and its willingness to cooperate with global justice efforts.
