ICC issues arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas leaders over Gaza conflict
The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister, and several Hamas officials. They are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict and October 2023 attacks. This development makes Netanyahu and the others internationally wanted suspects. It may complicate cease-fire negotiations in the ongoing conflict. However, the practical impact may be limited since Israel and the U.S. are not members of the court. Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders have condemned the warrants as disgraceful. U.S. President Joe Biden also criticized the ICC's actions, reaffirming support for Israel's right to defend itself. Hamas has similarly rejected the warrants.