ICC issues arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant, Deif
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas’s military commander Mohammed Deif, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
In a statement on Thursday, the ICC said, “The Chamber issued warrants of arrest for two persons, Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu and Mr. Yoav Gallant, for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least October 8, 2023, until at least May 20, 2024.”
A warrant has also been issued for Deif, the elusive leader of Hamas’s military wing. While Israel claimed to have killed Deif in an airstrike in July, Hamas has denied his death.
The ICC’s decision restricts the movement of Netanyahu and Gallant, as the court’s 124 member states are required to execute the arrest warrants if the individuals enter their territories.
The warrants had initially been classified as “secret” to protect witnesses and the integrity of investigations.
However, the ICC released details to inform victims and address ongoing similar conduct
