Israel is bracing for potential arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu among the senior officials possibly targeted. Efforts to prevent ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Ahmad Khan’s move have reportedly failed, according to Israel’s Channel 12 News.
Expected to face arrest alongside Netanyahu are Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, amidst allegations related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention.
Despite escalating tensions, Israel has recently intensified aid efforts to Gaza, including opening a new land crossing to facilitate foreign assistance. The United States has confirmed a significant increase in aid entering the Strip.
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While Jerusalem continues diplomatic efforts to avert potential warrants, an emergency meeting convened by Netanyahu included discussions with U.S. officials to prevent Israeli arrests abroad. Sources suggest the ICC’s decision may have received tacit approval from the United States.
ICC Prosecutor Khan, elected with U.S. support, has previously addressed cases concerning undeclared detentions in Europe and war crimes in Afghanistan. The Palestinian Authority has acknowledged the ICC’s jurisdiction over alleged Israeli crimes, but Israel disputes its authority over military actions in Gaza, Judea, and Samaria.
Netanyahu has vehemently opposed any ICC attempts to undermine Israel’s right to self-defense, emphasizing the nation’s stance against potential warrants.
