ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Hamas Leader Over Gaza Conflict

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza conflict. The court stated there are reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant are responsible for acts such as murder, persecution, and the use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of a "widespread and systematic attack" on Gaza's civilian population. The ICC also highlighted the devastating impact of the Gaza blockade, citing lack of access to food, water, electricity, and medical supplies, which led to civilian deaths, including children, from malnutrition and dehydration. Hamas welcomed the decision as a step toward justice, while Israel rejected the accusations, calling them baseless and the court's jurisdiction invalid.

In addition, the warrant against Al-Masri, also known as Mohammed Deif, includes charges of mass killings, rape, and hostage-taking during the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel. Israel has claimed to have killed Al-Masri in a July airstrike, though Hamas has neither confirmed nor denied this. The ICC prosecution has stated it will continue investigating his reported death. The decision has drawn strong criticism from Israel’s allies, including the United States, which dismissed the move and questioned the ICC's process. The White House emphasized its "fundamental rejection" of the decision and indicated ongoing discussions with international partners about next steps.