ICC issues arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former defense minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. This marks a significant step for the ICC, which has faced challenges in enforcing its authority. Since its establishment in 2002, the ICC has opened 32 cases related to serious crimes, with 14 still ongoing. The court relies on member states to apprehend suspects, but many countries, including Israel and the U.S., do not recognize its jurisdiction, limiting its effectiveness. The warrant for Netanyahu is notable as it targets a leader of a Western-backed nation. While immediate arrests are unlikely, the warrants could lead to arrests in countries that recognize the ICC, although securing convictions remains difficult.