Accompanied by the Screening of the First Investigation:

Chemical Warfare by Indirect Means

Saturday, May 28, 2022 | 10:00 AM (Palestine Time)

Al-Haq proudly marked the launch of the Forensic Architecture Investigation (FAI) Unit with an event held at the Al-Qattan Foundation in Al-Tireh. The launch celebrated a significant milestone for Al-Haq, as the FAI Unit unveiled its inaugural project and solidified its role in advancing visual investigations and legal accountability in Palestine.

A Collaborative Effort

The establishment of the FAI Unit followed a year-long consultation with experts at Birzeit University. This collaboration has laid the foundation for Al-Haq to host and train students, equipping them with cutting-edge skills in visual and spatial investigation while fostering the growth of this groundbreaking program.

Advancing Advocacy and Justice

The FAI Unit enhances Al-Haq’s mission by incorporating spatial architectural methodologies into its work, enabling detailed analyses of crime scenes and producing secondary evidence critical for international litigation. These investigations not only support Al-Haq’s legal efforts but also serve as a resource for partner organizations pursuing justice on multiple fronts.

In addition to supporting legal cases in international courts such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), the FAI Unit strengthens public advocacy and the broader work of Palestinian NGOs. It was also established to address the rapid technological advancements employed by the occupation, ensuring Palestinian organizations can respond effectively to these challenges.

A Vision for the Future

The innovative use of architecture in forensics and law is a relatively new approach that has drawn significant interest in Palestine. This initiative is rooted in research and practice addressing settler-colonial and military violence in the region. For Al-Haq, the launch of the FAI Unit represents “a kind of political dream,” advancing the documentation of violations from a Palestinian perspective and aligning with a strategy of anti-colonial struggle and national liberation.

About the Inaugural Investigation

The Shelling of Khudair Warehouse: Chemical Warfare by Indirect Means

As part of its launch, the FAI Unit presented its first investigation: a video analysis conducted in partnership with Forensic Architecture (FA). The investigation examined the fire at the Khudair Pharmaceuticals and Agricultural Tools Company in Gaza, caused by Israeli shelling during the 2021 attacks. The fire led to the release of hazardous chemical materials across a wide area, resulting in severe environmental and public health consequences.

The launch of the Forensic Architecture Investigation Unit reflects Al-Haq's unwavering commitment to justice and accountability, employing innovative methodologies to document and address violations of human rights and international law.

For more information on the work of the unit, contact the following email: [email protected]