French Lawyer Gilles Devers: A Tireless Advocate for Palestine and Justice on the Global Stage

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 27th, 2024 — The international legal community and advocates for Palestinian rights mourn the loss of French lawyer and legal scholar Gilles Devers, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 68 after a long battle with illness. Renowned as one of the fiercest and most determined defenders of the Palestinian cause, Devers dedicated his life to holding perpetrators of war crimes accountable and ensuring justice for oppressed nations.

A Life Dedicated to Justice

Gilles Devers, a doctor of law and a visionary legal strategist, became a prominent figure in international law by representing the Palestinian people before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Throughout his career, he consistently championed the cause of justice, most notably securing international arrest warrants against Zionist Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Devers was the mastermind behind these groundbreaking warrants, issued at the request of International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan in May 2023. The move marked an unprecedented legal victory for Palestine, a culmination of years of painstaking work by Devers and his team. His commitment to justice was so unwavering that he described the day of the warrants’ issuance as “a dream achieved,” telling his son, “Now I can die at peace.”

A Global Network for Accountability

As the founder of the International Lawyers Committee, a network of over 500 legal experts and practitioners, Devers worked tirelessly to ensure accountability for war crimes. This global initiative remains a cornerstone in the fight against impunity, reflecting his vision of a world governed by the rule of law.

Even in his final days, battling illness, Devers continued his advocacy. He delivered what would become his last public statements to Al Jazeera, celebrating the legal triumph that brought war criminals closer to justice. His resolve remained unshaken, a testament to his unyielding dedication to the oppressed.

Tributes to a Legal Luminary

Devers’ passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from leaders and activists worldwide. Dr. Bassem Naim, a senior official in the Hamas political bureau, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Devers as a “true ally of oppressed peoples, foremost among them the Palestinian people.” Naim highlighted Devers’ courageous stance during the aftermath of the Zionist assault on Gaza in October 2023, affirming that his legacy will endure in the collective memory of Palestine.

International law expert Abdelmajid Merari hailed Devers’ contributions as a turning point in the legal struggle for Palestinian rights. According to Merari, Devers’ work transcended the issuance of warrants; it symbolized a broader victory for justice and a beacon of hope for those fighting systemic oppression.

A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

Gilles Devers leaves behind a profound legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. His life’s work will continue to inspire legal practitioners and human rights advocates worldwide. His impact on the Palestinian struggle for freedom and dignity is immeasurable, embodying the spirit of a man who stood resolutely for what is right, regardless of the odds.

A champion is gone, but his fight endures.

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