Anti-Israel Groups Target IDF Soldiers with Legal and Doxxing Campaigns

Three soldiers from Israel's Nahal Brigade have become the latest targets in a campaign by anti-Israel organizations, aiming to doxx and pursue legal actions against Israeli servicemen abroad. The Belgium-based Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF) publicly named and called for the arrest of the soldiers after they entered the Netherlands on Thursday. The HRF filed a complaint accusing them of war crimes, particularly in relation to operations in Gaza, including the alleged burning of homes and damaging of the Rafah crossing, which the group claimed was an act of “weaponized famine.”

The soldiers' names and images were shared on social media by the HRF, escalating the situation. This is part of a larger trend in which anti-Israel groups are using social media to identify Israeli soldiers and push for legal action. The HRF had previously filed a complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding a soldier visiting the United Arab Emirates. The group often bases its accusations on soldiers' actions during operations in Gaza or the West Bank, without providing specific details on individual acts.

International Impact and Legal Uncertainty

This doxxing campaign is part of a broader effort by anti-Israel organizations to target Israeli soldiers. The Israel Genocide Tracker, a prominent account with over 160,000 followers, has been sharing the names and pictures of soldiers allegedly involved in Gaza operations. Some of those identified are dual nationals, further complicating the situation.

The HRF claims to have gathered over 8,000 documents related to alleged war crimes, including destruction of infrastructure and occupation of civilian homes. However, experts have raised concerns about the legal viability of such cases. Many believe that the main aim of these campaigns is to intimidate Israeli soldiers, delegitimize their service, and generate negative publicity for Israel.

Universal Jurisdiction and Military Threats

Legal adviser Anne Herzberg from NGO Monitor warned that anti-Israel groups could exploit judicial systems in countries with weak due process to target Israeli soldiers with “flimsy evidence.” These legal actions are part of a broader strategy to deter dual nationals from serving in the IDF for fear of potential prosecution if they return to their home countries.

International Legal Forum CEO Arsen Ostrovsky described these legal campaigns as “political stunts” but noted the growing hostility toward Israel in some European countries. Ostrovsky suggested that Israel should consider adopting measures similar to the US American Service-Members' Protection Act to prevent the arrest of Israeli soldiers abroad.

Ongoing Legal and Security Concerns

This rising trend of doxxing and legal challenges against Israeli soldiers represents a significant national security concern for Israel, particularly as these campaigns intensify. Some groups involved in these actions have ties to extremist organizations, further complicating the political and legal landscape.

As the situation evolves, Israel faces increasing pressure to protect its soldiers from international legal threats and ensure that its military personnel can travel without fear of arrest.