Argentina names Iran and Hezbollah as perpetrators of AMIA bombing

In Argentina, commemorations were held to mark the 31st anniversary of the AMIA bombing. This tragic event occurred on July 18, 1994, when a car bomb destroyed the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) building in Buenos Aires, resulting in the deaths of 85 people and injuring more than 300. Survivors and family members of the victims gathered to demand justice, and the event was attended by President Javier Milei, a pro-Israel leader who has shown a commitment to addressing the unresolved case. In April 2024, an Argentine court declared that Iran and Hezbollah were responsible for the bombing, categorizing it as a crime against humanity, with motivations tied to the cancellation of nuclear contracts by the then-government. The court's ruling was a significant step after decades of inaction surrounding the investigation. Despite the ruling, there has been frustration among victim advocates regarding the lack of participation from the accused during the trial proceedings. There are concerns that a trial in absentia may not provide comprehensive justice, as many believe the full truth requires the accused to be present. Additionally, the handling of the investigation has faced criticism, especially after the Inter-American Court of Human Rights held the Argentine state accountable for failing to prevent the attack and for obstructing the investigation. The situation further intensifies as the Argentine judiciary pushes forward amidst increased tensions between Argentina and Iran, which has historically denied involvement in the bombing. The environment is complicated by broader geopolitical dynamics, including Argentina's diplomatic ties with Israel and ongoing concerns regarding Hezbollah's activities in Latin America. The recent commemorations also aimed to keep the memory of the victims alive while fostering public demand for accountability in a trial that has been a long time coming.