ICC Chief Prosecutor Files Arrest Warrant Applications for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas Leaders

International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan has made a bold move by filing applications for arrest warrants at the ICC for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, alongside three senior Hamas leaders. The Hamas leaders listed by Khan are Ismail Haniyeh, Yahya Sinwar, and Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri.

The applications will be reviewed by ICC judges to determine if the standard for the issuance of arrest warrants has been met amidst Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza.

In response to the announcement, Khan stated, “Today we once again underline that international law and the laws of armed conflict apply to all… No foot soldier, no commander, no civilian leader — no one — can act with impunity.”

The warrants come after a thorough investigation into Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel and Israel’s military response in the Gaza Strip. Both Israeli officials and Hamas have criticized the ICC chief prosecutor’s move.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the decision, stating that it emboldens terrorists and violates the basic rules of the court. On the other hand, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum supported the ICC’s action against Hamas but disagreed with the perceived equivalence drawn between Israel’s leadership and the terrorists of Hamas.

Khan accuses Netanyahu and Gallant of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including starvation of civilians and intentional attacks on a civilian population. Similarly, Sinwar, Haniyeh, and Al-Masri are accused of crimes like murder, taking hostages, rape, torture, and other inhumane acts.

The ICC prosecutor’s decision has sparked outrage and differing opinions from both Israeli and Hamas officials. The situation highlights the complex dynamics and violations of international law in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.