News Today: ICC Judges Target Israel and Hamas Leaders in Landmark Decision

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif. This move follows allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the war between Israel and Hamas.

The ICC stated that “reasonable grounds” exist to hold the three leaders accountable. Israel contested the court’s jurisdiction but faced rejection from a pre-trial chamber. While Israel claims Deif was killed in an airstrike in July, Hamas views the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant as setting a “significant historical precedent.”

Prime Minister Netanyahu denounced the ICC’s decision as “antisemitic,” a sentiment echoed by the United States, which also opposes the ruling. However, European nations have expressed respect for the court’s judgment.

The enforcement of these warrants largely depends on the 124 member states of the ICC, none of which include Israel or its ally, the United States. The case marks a significant moment in international law and accountability amid global conflict.