Goldstone wins Swedish human rights award

Richard Goldstone, author of a U.N. report critical of Israel’s role in the Gaza war, has won the Stockholm Human Rights Award.

The prize, according to media reports, is given by the International Legal Assistance Consortium, the Swedish Bar Association and the International Bar Association for “an outstanding contribution to promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.” The award cited the South African jurist’s “extraordinary career” in fighting for human rights.

Goldstone’s report called on both Israel and Hamas to investigate alleged war crimes.

The report came under heavy criticism from Israel, which said it negated Israel’s right to self-defense.

The U.N. General Assembly overwhelmingly endorsed the report last month, while the House of Representatives condemned it. — jta