ICC issues arrest warrants for Israeli leaders and Hamas chief over war crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity.

These charges are related to actions taken during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The warrants cover a period from at least October 8, 2023, through to May 20, 2024.

The ICC's decision also includes an arrest warrant for Mohammed Deif, the military leader of Hamas, who has been charged with similar crimes. Deif's death was reported by Israeli officials in July due to an airstrike in Gaza, though Hamas has not confirmed his death.

In response to the court's action, the United States has strongly rejected the ICC's jurisdiction in the case. The U.S. government expressed concerns over what it called "process errors" and a rush to issue arrest warrants, stating that the ICC lacks authority over this matter. Both Israel and the U.S. are not signatories to the ICC's founding statute, and they have previously rejected the court's jurisdiction.

The U.S. stance reflects broader political criticism, particularly from Republican figures, who have suggested punitive measures against the ICC, accusing the court of antisemitic bias. Meanwhile, Israel’s government has vowed to continue defending its actions in Gaza, framing them as part of its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism.

The ICC's decision, which has drawn widespread international attention, underscores the growing tension between global human rights norms and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The arrests would require international cooperation, as 124 countries are signatories to the ICC’s founding treaty and are bound by its warrants. However, neither Israel nor the U.S. are signatories, complicating the likelihood of enforcement.