Iran’s Supreme Leader Calls for Death Sentences Against Israeli Leaders Amid ICC Warrants

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, criticized the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Monday, calling for death sentences instead of arrest warrants for Israeli leaders. Iran, a key backer of Hamas and Hezbollah, has been vocal in its opposition to Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.

Khamenei’s remarks followed the ICC’s decision last Thursday to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri. “They issued an arrest warrant, that’s not enough… Death sentences must be issued for these criminal leaders,” Khamenei said.

ICC Warrants and Charges

The ICC judges determined there were reasonable grounds to hold Netanyahu and Gallant accountable for crimes including murder, persecution, and the use of starvation as a weapon of war. These actions were deemed part of a "widespread and systematic attack against the civilian population of Gaza."

The decision sparked outrage in Israel, which dismissed it as “shameful and absurd.” In Gaza, however, some residents viewed the ICC’s move as a step toward justice and an end to violence.

Israel has rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction and denies allegations of war crimes in Gaza.

Warrant Against Hamas Leader

The ICC also issued a warrant against Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri, accusing him of involvement in mass killings during the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which ignited the current war in Gaza. Additional charges include rape and hostage-taking.

Israel claims to have killed Al-Masri, also known as Mohammed Deif, in a July airstrike, though Hamas has not confirmed his death.

Regional Tensions and Global Reactions

Khamenei’s comments reflect Iran’s ongoing support for armed groups opposing Israel. His call for harsher measures against Israeli leaders underscores the deepening polarization surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

The ICC’s actions have drawn mixed reactions internationally, with debates over the court’s jurisdiction and the implications of pursuing high-profile leaders from both sides of the conflict.