France Investigates 2012 Deaths of Journalists as Crimes Against Humanity

French prosecutors have expanded their investigation into the 2012 deaths of American journalist Marie Colvin and French photographer Rémi Ochlik in Syria, now treating the case as a possible crime against humanity. Initially classified as potential war crimes, the investigation was broadened to reflect new evidence suggesting a systematic campaign by the Syrian regime to target journalists and civilians. This change allows French courts to assert universal jurisdiction over the case regardless of nationality or location. A US court previously ruled that the Syrian military deliberately targeted Colvin and other journalists, leading to the fatal shelling of the Baba Amr Media Center. Lawyers representing the victims' families view this development as a significant step forward in addressing crimes against journalists in conflict zones. The inquiry also encompasses broader persecution of journalists and human rights defenders in Syria during the civil war.