Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has strongly criticized the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the announcement that arrest warrants would be requested for Israeli and Hamas officials. Bennett labeled the move as a 'shameful moment' for the ICC, denouncing it as a 'total joke' and accusing the court of being a 'political tool' for Israel's enemies.
Bennett reiterated claims of Hamas atrocities, including burning children and families, and accused the ICC of equating Israeli leaders with terrorists. He called for the dismantling and defunding of the ICC, dismissing the warrants as a 'political play' devoid of evidence.
A panel of judges will review the request for warrants for Israeli and Hamas officials, with ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan alleging war crimes and crimes against humanity on both sides.
Amal Clooney, assisting in the assessment, stated that there are 'reasonable grounds' to believe Hamas leaders have committed war crimes. Netanyahu and Bennett condemned the warrants as 'fallacious' and 'anti-Zionism.'
President Biden rejected the ICC's efforts, emphasizing that the U.S. does not view Israel as committing genocide. Bennett highlighted Israel's efforts to minimize civilian casualties and criticized the accusations.
Israel, not an ICC member, faces no immediate risk of prosecution, but the warrants could impact officials' travel. The ICC's history of issuing warrants, such as for Russian President Putin, has led to travel restrictions for those targeted.
South Africa, supporting the warrants, emphasized the need for accountability and equal application of the law. The country has been vocal in seeking criminal punishment for Israel, accusing it of genocide in Gaza.
