The International Criminal Court (ICC) is potentially considering issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and senior military officials, an Israeli official speaking to NBC News reports on April 29. Israel is reportedly engaging in diplomatic efforts to prevent the warrants from being issued.
The ICC's investigation, initiated three years ago, focuses on possible war crimes committed by both Israel and Palestinian militants, dating back to the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2014. While there has been no public indication from the ICC regarding imminent arrest warrants, the situation remains tense.
The potential warrants coincide with mounting pressure on Israel to cease its military offensive in Gaza, which Palestinian officials claim has resulted in significant casualties. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu recently discussed the situation with President Joe Biden, awaiting a response from Hamas on a proposed ceasefire.
The ICC's chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, visited the region in December and emphasized the thoroughness and determination of the investigation. However, any warrants issued would not automatically lead to imprisonment for Netanyahu or other Israeli officials.
Israel and the United States do not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction. Nonetheless, if warrants were issued, Israeli officials could face the risk of arrest in other countries, particularly in Europe.
Netanyahu has vehemently rejected any attempt by the ICC to undermine Israel's right to self-defense, labeling the threat to seize Israeli soldiers and officials as outrageous.
In response to the rumors of potential warrants, Israel's Foreign Ministry expressed concern, warning that such a move could embolden militant groups like Hamas.
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