Aakhir Tak – In Shorts
- The ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
- They are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
- Allegations include restricting food, water, and medical aid and targeting civilians intentionally.
- Thousands died, and millions were displaced in the Gaza conflict.
- The ICC rejected Israel’s jurisdiction challenges, affirming its authority over Gaza, West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
Aakhir Tak – In Depth
ICC Issues Warrants Against Netanyahu and Gallant
The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants on Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
What Are the Charges?
The ICC has accused Netanyahu and Gallant of murder, persecution, and inhumane acts. They are also charged with using starvation as a method of warfare by restricting essential supplies like food, water, and medical aid. The court found evidence of these actions from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Following the October 7 Hamas attacks, Israel launched retaliatory strikes on Gaza. The war resulted in thousands of civilian deaths and displaced millions. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, was destroyed. The ICC noted that civilians were intentionally targeted, and medical supplies were withheld, leading to unsafe procedures and immense suffering.
Israel’s Challenges Rejected
The ICC dismissed two challenges from Israel regarding its jurisdiction. Israel argued that the court could not act without its consent, but the ICC affirmed its authority over Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
Key Takeaways to Remember
- ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant.
- The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity.
- Gaza’s humanitarian crisis involved severe shortages of essential supplies.
- The ICC upheld its jurisdiction over Palestine.
