ICC issues arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas leaders over war crimes
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, claiming they are absurd and false. The ICC's decision could complicate travel for the accused, as member states are required to detain them if they enter their territory. However, Israel and the U.S. are not members of the ICC, limiting the practical impact of the warrants. The warrants follow accusations that Netanyahu and Gallant intentionally deprived Gaza's civilian population of essential supplies, while Deif is linked to the October 2023 attacks on Israel. The ICC's actions come amid ongoing violence, with significant casualties reported on both sides.