Israel announced that it would appeal the ICC arrest warrants for former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict.
On Wednesday (November 27, 2024), Netanyahu’s defense stated that Israel rejects the Hala Court’s jurisdiction and again denied the charges. The country also notified the court of its intention to appeal and asked for the execution of the warrants to be postponed. The information was reported by Reuters.
Israel argues that the case is outside the ICC’s jurisdiction. The foreign minister of Israel stated that the court’s ruling lacked any justification.
In addition to Netanyahu and Gallant, the arrest warrants include Hamas military leader Ibrahim Al-Masri, known as Mohammed Deif. This broadens the investigation into the events in Gaza.
The Hague decision follows Prosecutor Karim Khan’s announcement on May 20, 2024, that he would seek warrants related to the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas on Israel and the Israeli military response.
Israel is responding with a diplomatic and legal approach. Appeal requests will be decided by judges, according to ICC spokesman Fadi El Abdallah. Under court rules, the UN Security Council can postpone an investigation or prosecution for one year, renewable annually. After a warrant is issued, the designated country or person may challenge the jurisdiction or admissibility of the case.
Also Read: US Sanctions on 3 Israeli Citizens
