Fri Sep 20 12:53:40 UTC 2024: ## Israel Challenges ICC Jurisdiction Over War Crimes Investigation

**JERUSALEM** – Israel has formally challenged the International Criminal Court (ICC) over its jurisdiction and the legality of arrest warrant requests against Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, for their conduct during the recent Gaza war.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry submitted two legal briefs on Friday, arguing that the ICC lacks jurisdiction in the case and that the Prosecutor violated court rules by failing to provide Israel with an opportunity to investigate the claims itself before proceeding.

The warrants, requested in May, are also sought against Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and other leaders of the Palestinian militant group. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan last month urged judges to rule on the warrants, claiming the court has jurisdiction over any war crimes in occupied Palestinian territories. He dismissed arguments that the ICC should not intervene as Israel is conducting its own investigation.

The Israeli government maintains that it is investigating the matter and is not subject to the ICC’s jurisdiction.

The ICC’s decision on the warrants could be further delayed by Israel’s legal challenges. The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 40,000 Palestinians killed in the Israeli assault.

Both Israeli and Palestinian leaders have dismissed allegations of war crimes committed during the conflict.

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