The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The warrants are based on allegations that they starved Palestinian civilians in Gaza during Israel’s war against Hamas.
In addition to Netanyahu and Gallant, an arrest warrant has also been issued for Mohammed Deif, the Hamas military chief. Deif’s death has been reported but not confirmed.
According to the Hague-based court, the warrants were issued based on a recommendation by chief prosecutor Karim Khan in May. The court stated, “There are reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant bear criminal responsibility for the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare.”
The court further explained, “There are reasonable grounds to believe that the lack of food, water, electricity, and fuel, along with specific medical supplies, created conditions of life calculated to bring about the destruction of part of the civilian population in Gaza, resulting in the death of civilians, including children, due to malnutrition and dehydration.”
In response to the prosecutions, Netanyahu’s office condemned them as “antisemitic” and drew parallels to the historic Dreyfus affair. Netanyahu emphasized the justness of Israel’s war against Hamas, which began in October 2023.
President Joe Biden has criticized the warrants, asserting that there is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas. The Biden administration has reiterated its support for Israel’s security.
While the warrants may impact Netanyahu and Gallant’s international travel, the enforceability of ICC warrants can vary. However, leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin have limited their travel in response to ICC warrants.
Notably, Gallant was recently fired as defense minister by Netanyahu due to differences in war strategy. The political implications of the warrants have also led to discussions in Congress about potential sanctions against ICC officials.
The ICC also noted that arrest warrants were sought for Hamas leaders, including Deif, whose death is yet to be definitively confirmed. The court’s actions underscore the ongoing tensions and legal challenges in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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