ICC prosecutor urges ‘urgent’ arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu, Gallant, Hamas leaders

The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) chief prosecutor Karim Khan has called for immediate arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif.

Citing “the worsening situation in Palestine,” Khan’s appeal underscores the growing urgency surrounding the accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity by both Israeli officials and Hamas.

Khan first sought the warrants in May, accusing the leaders of their involvement in acts that violate international law. However, the case has faced significant procedural hurdles, including a delay caused by the court’s decision to allow the United Kingdom to submit its stance on the court’s jurisdiction over the matter. The UK ultimately chose not to intervene.

Also Read: Missouri Supreme Court restores abortion rights amendment to November ballot

Khan’s legal filings reveal a shift in focus due to recent events. He announced the withdrawal of his request for an arrest warrant against the late Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran in August. Additionally, the prosecutor has indicated he will drop the request for Deif, the Hamas military commander, pending confirmation of his reported death at the hands of Israeli forces earlier this year.

The ICC prosecutor’s call for action is a significant development, as it aims to hold both Israeli and Hamas leadership accountable on the international stage. “The urgency of these arrest warrants cannot be overstated, given the escalating nature of the conflict,” said Khan, stressing the importance of immediate judicial intervention.