Thu Sep 19 05:42:50 UTC 2024: ## Dozens of Families Sue Syria for $500 Million Over Hamas Massacre
**Jerusalem, Israel -** A group of American families, many with dual Israeli citizenship, have filed a $500 million lawsuit against Syria in the US Federal District Court in Washington. The plaintiffs accuse Syria of providing financial, military, and logistical support to Hamas, leading to the deadly October 7 massacre at the Supernova music festival near the Gaza Strip.
The lawsuit alleges that Syria’s involvement went beyond financial aid, including supplying Hamas with military equipment and using Syrian territory for preparations leading up to the attack. It cites US laws that allow legal action against countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism, a designation Syria has held for decades, stripping it of immunity in US courts.
Plaintiffs, including survivors of the massacre, are seeking compensation for physical and emotional damages they suffered. Mordechai Artzi, a 27-year-old survivor who narrowly escaped the Supernova attack, shared his harrowing experience, stating, “The memories haunt me, and I’m undergoing treatment. I joined the lawsuit to ensure this never happens again and to support others who have experienced similar traumas.”
The lawsuit is part of a broader legal strategy targeting state sponsors of terrorism, including a previously filed lawsuit against Iran. Legal experts involved in the case emphasized the importance of civil lawsuits in combating terrorism. IDF Lt.-Col. (res.) Maurice Hirsch, former head of the IDF Military Prosecution in the West Bank, said, “Syria, as part of the Axis of Evil, is another link in the chain of fire Iran has created around Israel. Holding Syria accountable through legal action is critical to combating terrorism and preventing future attacks.”
First Piper 