The International Criminal Court issues arrest warrants for Israeli and Palestinian leaders

On Thursday 21 November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced the issue of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for crimes against humanity and war crimes. A similar warrant has also been issued for Mohammed Deif, head of the armed wing of Hamas, on similar charges.

An impact on the international scene

The ICC’s decision could restrict Benjamin Netanyahu’s movements, as every member state of the Court (124 in total) is theoretically obliged to arrest him if he enters its territory.

In a statement, the ICC said:

The warrants relate to crimes committed at least from 8 October 2023 until 20 May 2024, the date on which the applications were filed.
Hamas leader Mohammed Deif is also accused of similar acts committed in the territories of Israel and Palestine since 7 October 2023

A partial revelation and a political controversy

Initially classified as ‘secret’ to protect witnesses, the warrants were made public to inform the victims and their families. Israel, however, has strongly criticised the ICC. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denounced a ‘loss of legitimacy’ and accused the Court of serving political interests.
Hamas, for its part, hailed a ‘symbolic step towards justice’, but also ‘a step in the right direction’.