ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas Leader Deif Unprecedented Move Sparks Outrage and Support

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The warrants have also been criticized by Israel's closest allies, including the United States, which expressed deep concern over the ICC's decision. A National Security Council spokesperson stated, "We remain deeply concerned by the Prosecutor's rush to seek arrest warrants and the troubling process errors that led to this decision," asserting that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the matter.

Conversely, human rights organizations like Amnesty International welcomed the ICC's move. Amnesty Secretary General Agnes Callamard remarked, "Prime Minister Netanyahu is now officially a wanted man."

Charges and Allegations

The ICC's warrants theoretically limit Netanyahu's movement, as member states are obligated to arrest him if he enters their territory. The court announced that warrants were issued for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024. The charges include starvation as a method of warfare, murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.

The ICC alleges that Netanyahu and Gallant intentionally deprived the civilian population in Gaza of essential supplies, including food, water, medicine, fuel, and electricity. The court stated that the conditions created by this deprivation "calculated to bring about the destruction of part of the civilian population in Gaza" resulted in civilian deaths, including children suffering from malnutrition and dehydration.

Global Reactions

International responses have varied widely. Argentina's President Javier Milei expressed his "deep disagreement," arguing that criminalizing a nation's legitimate defense while ignoring atrocities distorts international justice. In contrast, the European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, emphasized the importance of respecting the court's decision.

Hamas characterized the warrants as an "important step towards justice," while the ICC initially classified the warrants as secret to protect witnesses but later made them public due to ongoing conduct similar to that addressed in the warrants.

ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan had requested the warrants in May, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Netanyahu dismissed Gallant from his position as defense minister on November 5, shortly before the warrants were issued.