Khamenei Criticizes ICC Arrest Warrants

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has criticized the International Criminal Court's (ICC) decision to issue arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri, calling instead for death sentences. The ICC accuses the Israeli leaders of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the conflict in Gaza, which Netanyahu has dismissed as absurd. Khamenei's remarks reflect Tehran's longstanding opposition to Israel, which, along with the United States, does not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction. The charges against Al-Masri stem from the October 2023 attacks on Israel. Despite the warrants, the practical impact may be limited due to the non-cooperation of Israel and its allies with the ICC. Meanwhile, Gaza residents hope the ICC's actions will bring justice, though Israel denies committing war crimes.