Safa Younes, now 33, reflects on the tragedy as she stands before the house where her family was killed during the Haditha massacre on November 19, 2005. Bullet holes mark the entrance of her childhood home, a stark reminder of that devastating day when U.S. Marines opened fire, killing her entire family except for her.
A recent BBC Eye investigation has revealed evidence implicating two Marines in this massacre, sparking renewed questions regarding the military's accountability for civilian deaths. Forensic experts have raised doubts about the original U.S. investigation into the killings, emphasizing the need for justice for the victims of the incident known as the Haditha massacre.
Safa recalls hiding with her siblings as the Marines stormed into their home, stating, We hadn't been accused of anything. We didn't even have any weapons in the house. Despite a long investigation, no one was convicted for the killings, leading many, including Safa, to demand accountability.
The newly uncovered evidence includes testimonies from Marines involved that contradict earlier claims, suggesting a profound miscarriage of justice. The U.S. Marine Corps maintains its commitment to fair legal proceedings but has indicated it will not reopen the investigation unless new, substantial evidence comes to light.
As Safa continues to live in Haditha with her children, she reflects on the events of 20 years ago: I want those who did this to be held accountable and punished by the law. It's been almost 20 years without them being tried. That's the real crime.\
A recent BBC Eye investigation has revealed evidence implicating two Marines in this massacre, sparking renewed questions regarding the military's accountability for civilian deaths. Forensic experts have raised doubts about the original U.S. investigation into the killings, emphasizing the need for justice for the victims of the incident known as the Haditha massacre.
Safa recalls hiding with her siblings as the Marines stormed into their home, stating, We hadn't been accused of anything. We didn't even have any weapons in the house. Despite a long investigation, no one was convicted for the killings, leading many, including Safa, to demand accountability.
The newly uncovered evidence includes testimonies from Marines involved that contradict earlier claims, suggesting a profound miscarriage of justice. The U.S. Marine Corps maintains its commitment to fair legal proceedings but has indicated it will not reopen the investigation unless new, substantial evidence comes to light.
As Safa continues to live in Haditha with her children, she reflects on the events of 20 years ago: I want those who did this to be held accountable and punished by the law. It's been almost 20 years without them being tried. That's the real crime.\
