Recently, several humanitarian agencies have raised concerns over the decision made by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The warrants are in relation to alleged war crimes committed in Gaza during Israel's 13-month onslaught following the Hamas-led attacks in October.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) emphasized the significance of this development, stressing that it relies on governments' willingness to support justice. According to HRW, the arrest warrants against senior Israeli leaders and a Hamas official challenge the notion that certain individuals are beyond the reach of the law.
The United Nations Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian Territories, Francesca Albanese, urged human rights leaders to collaborate in ensuring accountability remains a top priority. Additionally, Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem called on all states parties to respect the ICC's decision and enforce the warrants, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability for decision-makers.
Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) highlighted the devastating impact of Israel's actions on the health system in Gaza and the broader region. The organization emphasized that Palestinians have waited too long for justice and protection under the law, urging the UK to stand against atrocities.
In response to the ICC's decision, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office vehemently rejected the accusations, labeling the ICC as a politically biased and discriminatory body.
