Thu Nov 21 18:04:34 UTC 2024: ## ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas Commander

**The Hague, Netherlands** – In a landmark decision, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. This marks the first time the court has issued warrants for senior officials of a Western-allied nation in its 22-year history.

The warrants, issued Thursday, stem from a six-month-old request by ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan and allege war crimes and crimes against humanity committed since October 7, 2023. The court rejected Israeli appeals challenging its jurisdiction. While initially classified, the warrants were released due to the ongoing conflict and to inform victims’ families.

Netanyahu and Gallant are accused of intentionally depriving Gaza’s civilian population of essential supplies, including food, water, and medicine, constituting the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare. They are also charged with crimes against humanity, specifically murder and persecution. The court cited insufficient humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza as evidence.

Deif faces charges of war crimes (murder and hostage-taking) and crimes against humanity (extermination) related to the October 7th Hamas attacks on southern Israel, including the Supernova music festival. The court also cited evidence suggesting torture, rape, and other atrocities against Israeli captives.

The decision has been met with mixed reactions. While a lawyer representing Palestinian victims hailed it as “historic,” Israeli officials strongly condemned the ruling, with President Isaac Herzog calling it “outrageous.” Hamas, meanwhile, called for the ICC to expand its investigation to include all Israeli leaders.

The ICC relies on member states to arrest and extradite the indicted individuals. Several European nations, including France and the Netherlands, have indicated they will cooperate, while the UK government has yet to comment. The court emphasized that a trial cannot proceed in absentia. The situation remains tense, highlighting the deep divisions and ongoing conflict in the region.

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