ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas Leader

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, citing crimes against humanity and war crimes related to the Gaza conflict. The warrants follow a request from ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan and are based on allegations of using starvation as a weapon of war and targeting civilians. Despite the warrants, Israel has rejected the ICC's jurisdiction, arguing that it is not a member of the court, while Hamas has not confirmed the death of Al-Masri amidst conflicting reports. The World Jewish Congress has expressed concern over the ICC's actions, calling them politically motivated and detrimental to peace efforts. The ICC operates under the Rome Statute, which allows it to prosecute individuals when national authorities are unable or unwilling to investigate crimes. The situation reflects ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of international legal jurisdiction regarding war crimes.