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, former defense minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, accusing them of war crimes related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This marks a significant escalation in international legal actions against both Israeli and Hamas officials. Netanyahu condemned the warrants as "absurd and false," asserting Israel's right to defend itself. The warrants could complicate international travel for Netanyahu and Gallant, although enforcement is limited since Israel is not a member of the ICC. The ICC's decision follows accusations that Israeli leaders intentionally deprived Gaza's civilian population of essential supplies. The court's actions come amid ongoing violence, with over 40,000 Palestinians reported killed since Israel's offensive began after the October 7 attacks by Hamas.