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The International Criminal Court (ICC) has officially issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, ex-defence chief Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri. The charges, related to war crimes and crimes against humanity, stem from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The court’s announcement on 21 November 2024 has triggered widespread global reactions and reignited discussions on justice, accountability, and the challenges of enforcing such warrants.
Allegations Against Israeli and Hamas Leaders
The International Criminal Court has issued charges against Israeli leaders Netanyahu and Gallant for war crimes, including murder, persecution, and using starvation as a weapon during the Gaza conflict. These actions were described as part of a “widespread and systematic attack” against civilians, with the blockade of Gaza causing severe deprivation of essential resources, resulting in deaths from malnutrition and dehydration.
Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri faces separate charges, including mass killings and hostage-taking, related to the 7 October 2023 attacks. Though Israel claims to have killed Al-Masri in a July airstrike, the court has confirmed its investigation into the matter will continue.
Varied Responses from Israel, Hamas, and Global Powers
Israel has strongly rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction and dismissed the allegations as baseless. Calling the decision “shameful and absurd,” Israeli officials reiterated their stance that their military actions in Gaza were lawful and necessary for self-defence.
The United States, Israel’s primary ally, echoed these sentiments. A White House National Security Council spokesperson criticised the ICC for “process errors” and expressed concern over the prosecutor’s “rush to seek arrest warrants.”
Hamas, on the other hand, welcomed the warrants against Israeli leaders as a crucial step towards justice. Residents of Gaza expressed hope that this decision could pave the way for greater accountability and an end to the violence.
Globally, reactions were divided. While the ICC’s actions garnered support from European Union member states, Canada, Australia, and several countries in Africa and Latin America, major powers such as the United States, Russia, China, and India—none of which are ICC members—criticised or dismissed the move.
The ICC’s Limits and Broader Implications
Israel has firmly rejected the ICC’s authority and labelled the charges as “baseless,” calling the decision “shameful and absurd.” Israeli officials defended their military actions in Gaza as legal and necessary for self-defence, a stance supported by the United States.
A White House National Security Council spokesperson criticised the ICC for “process errors” and expressed concerns about the haste in seeking arrest warrants.
Hamas, however, welcomed the warrants, calling them a critical step towards justice and accountability.