ICC Confirms Arrest Warrants Against Netanyahu and Galant
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Galant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the ongoing military operations in Gaza. Fadi Al-Abdallah, a spokesman for the ICC, emphasized that political pressure would not influence the court's decisions, and the warrants can only be revoked with substantial legal arguments. The court is currently investigating the actions of both leaders during the conflict, asserting that not all actions in war are permissible.
Israel's Appeal Against ICC's Decision
In response to the ICC's announcement, Israel has formally notified the court of its intention to appeal the arrest warrants. The Israeli Prime Minister's office stated that it contests the ICC's jurisdiction and legitimacy concerning the warrants. Israel has also requested a suspension of the warrants' execution while the appeal is pending. Netanyahu's office expressed concerns about the perceived bias of the ICC, particularly in light of the ongoing military operations in Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
France's Ambiguous Position on Netanyahu's Immunity
The situation has raised questions about Netanyahu's potential immunity in France, a signatory to the Rome Statute that established the ICC. French officials have maintained a cautious stance, indicating that they will adhere to their obligations under international law while not explicitly committing to arrest Netanyahu should he enter French territory. This ambiguity has drawn criticism from various political figures in France, including Marine Tondelier of the Green Party, who condemned the notion of immunity as a
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