ICC Issues Arrest Warrants Against Netanyahu and Gallant Over Gaza War Crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza during the conflict from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024.

The ICC stated that there is sufficient evidence to believe the two leaders deliberately deprived Gaza’s civilian population of vital resources, including food, water, medicine, fuel, and electricity, essential for survival.

The court also rejected Israel’s objections regarding jurisdiction, emphasizing that it can exercise authority based on Palestine’s territorial jurisdiction, even if Israel does not recognize the ICC.

Hamas leader Mohammed Deif was also targeted with an ICC arrest warrant, despite Israeli claims in July of his death in an airstrike. Deif has not been seen publicly since the attack.

This decision follows widespread devastation in Gaza, where Israeli military operations since October 2023 have resulted in over 44,000 Palestinian deaths and 104,000 injuries. Women and children make up half of the casualties, while more than a million residents have been displaced, health infrastructure has collapsed, and severe food shortages persist.

Israel has dismissed the ICC’s ruling, maintaining its longstanding position that the court does not have jurisdiction over its actions.