ICC Warrants Raise Tensions in Israel-Hamas Conflict

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas officials, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the 13-month conflict in Gaza and the October 2023 attack on Israel. Netanyahu has condemned the ICC's actions, labeling them as anti-Semitic and absurd, and asserting that Israel's military operations in Gaza are justified. The conflict, which began after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, has resulted in over 44,000 deaths in Gaza and significant casualties in Israel and Lebanon. The warrants have sparked outrage among Israeli officials, who claim the ICC is biased and lacks legitimacy. Hamas welcomed the ICC's decision but called for broader accountability. The issuance of the warrants complicates diplomatic efforts and increases international scrutiny on both Israeli and Hamas leadership.