ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Israeli PM Netanyahu, Ex-Defence Chief, and Hamas Leader Deif

The Hague: The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Chief Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif (also known as Ibrahim Al-Masri) over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. These crimes reportedly took place during the Israel-Gaza conflict from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024.

The ICC initially kept the warrants secret to protect witnesses and ensure smooth investigations. However, the court decided to release some details, saying it is important for victims and their families to know about the actions being taken.

Israel strongly rejected the move. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar called the arrest warrants “absurd” and accused the ICC of losing its credibility. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also criticized the decision, calling it a "mark of shame" for the court.

The ICC clarified that Israel’s approval is not needed for the arrest warrants to be valid. However, Israel has refused to recognize the court’s authority and denies committing war crimes in Gaza.

Hamas has not confirmed whether Deif was killed in an Israeli airstrike earlier this year, as Israel claims.

This development is expected to add to tensions in the region and raises questions about accountability in the ongoing conflict.