ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan KC has filed applications for arrest warrants before Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the situation in the State of Palestine.
The warrants target prominent figures in Hamas and the Israeli government, citing their alleged involvement in serious international crimes.
Hamas Leaders:
The ICC Prosecutor has named Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri (commonly known as Deif), and Ismail Haniyeh, all senior leaders of Hamas. They are accused of various war crimes and crimes against humanity, including extermination, murder, taking hostages, rape, torture, and other inhumane acts. These crimes are alleged to have occurred during attacks on Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023, and in subsequent actions.
According to the ICC, these Hamas leaders bear criminal responsibility for orchestrating the killing of hundreds of Israeli civilians and taking at least 245 hostages. The evidence includes victim and eyewitness testimonies, CCTV footage, authenticated audio and video material, and statements by Hamas members.
Israeli Officials:
The applications also target Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including starvation of civilians, willful killing, and persecution. These actions were allegedly part of Israel’s response to the conflict, which included a siege and systematic deprivation of essential supplies to Gaza, resulting in widespread suffering and deaths.
The ICC claims that Netanyahu and Gallant’s actions were part of a broader strategy to eliminate Hamas, secure the return of hostages, and collectively punish the civilian population of Gaza. The charges are based on extensive evidence, including satellite imagery, medical records, and witness interviews.
Prosecutor’s Statement:
Karim Khan emphasized the gravity of the crimes and the need for accountability, stating, “These acts demand accountability. My Office submits there are reasonable grounds to believe that these individuals planned and instigated the commission of crimes.”
The prosecutor also highlighted the ongoing nature of the investigation and called for the immediate release of all hostages. He reaffirmed the ICC’s commitment to ensuring justice and upholding international humanitarian law, stressing the importance of impartiality and thorough investigations.
International Response:
The applications for arrest warrants have significant implications for the international community. The ICC’s actions underscore the court’s mandate to prosecute serious international crimes and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their position, are held accountable for their actions. The outcome of these applications will be closely watched as the ICC continues its investigation into the conflict between Israel and Palestine.
