Benjamin Netanyahu Becomes a Fugitive of the ICC, Receives Support from Amnesty International

Kapanlagi.com - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now in the spotlight after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an official arrest warrant against him. This bold move was taken based on allegations of his involvement in war crimes and violations of humanity during the prolonged conflict in Gaza, Palestine.

This decision is not just ordinary news; it is an important precedent in international law that could compel ICC member states to act if Netanyahu enters their territory. However, behind this decision, Israel and its staunch ally, the United States, have voiced strong protests, refusing to acknowledge the legitimacy of the ICC's actions.

Not only Netanyahu is under scrutiny, but also former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as Hamas leader Mohammed Deif. All three are accused of being responsible for actions that violate international law in a conflict that has claimed thousands of lives in Gaza.

Stay tuned for the complete review to learn more about this development that is shaking the international stage!

1. Background of the Arrest

On November 21, 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant that shook the world, marking a new chapter in the Gaza conflict that has claimed many victims.

In a lengthy and thorough investigation process, the ICC accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of being directly involved in a series of horrific war crimes, such as using starvation as a weapon, mass killings, and other inhumane acts.

These alleged crimes emerged from the period between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024, when Israeli attacks in Gaza reached their peak, triggered by a Hamas counterattack that resulted in over 1,200 lives lost on the Israeli side. This bold move by the ICC received widespread support from international organizations, including Amnesty International, which firmly stated, "Prime Minister Netanyahu is now officially a fugitive," said Agnes Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, in her statement reported by Al Jazeera.

2. Response of Herzog and Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu firmly rejected the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it an anti-Semitic attack and an attempt to criminalize Israel. In a passionate video statement, he asserted, "No outrageous anti-Israel decision will deter us from defending our country."

Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog described this decision as "a dark day for justice," and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused the ICC of losing its legitimacy. Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also emphasized that equating Israel with Hamas is a dangerous step that undermines the right to self-defense. On the other hand, human rights groups in Israel, such as B'Tselem, actually support the ICC's move, considering it a crucial step in the fight for justice for the victims of the conflict in Gaza.

3. The Stance of Other Countries

The United States firmly rejects the legitimacy of the International Criminal Court (ICC) decision, asserting that the court does not have jurisdiction over Israel.

In its official statement, a spokesperson for the US National Security Council expressed, "We are very concerned about the flaws in the process underlying this decision." On the other hand, ICC member states in Europe, such as France and Germany, are now caught in a dilemma, where the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Joseph Borrell, asserts that the ICC's decision is binding, but its implementation depends on the will of the member states.

Meanwhile, several Arab countries have responded positively to the decision, with the Arab Communist Party of Israel, Hadash, welcoming it as a first step towards justice for Palestine.

4. Allegations Against Netanyahu

Serious allegations are shaking the international community, highlighting the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is accused of using starvation as a weapon of war, committing mass killings, and other inhumane acts in Gaza.

No less shocking, Yoav Gallant is also highlighted for the brutal attacks that have killed thousands of people, the majority of whom are civilians. According to data from the Gaza Ministry of Health recognized by the UN, this aggression has claimed more than 44,000 lives.

The humanitarian crisis is deepening with the scarcity of food, medicine, and clean water affecting the region. The human rights organization B'Tselem emphasizes, "Personal accountability for decision-makers is a key element in the struggle for justice and freedom," stressing the importance of accountability in the face of this tragedy.

5. Impact and Next Steps

The ICC's surprising decision has profound implications, not only in the context of international law but also in the global geopolitical landscape. Now, Netanyahu must think twice before stepping foot in any of the 124 ICC member countries, as the risk of arrest looms over him.

For Palestine, this is a glimmer of hope for achieving justice after years of enduring an unending conflict. However, Israel and its allies view this move as an unfair attempt at criminalization.

Amidst this debate, Amnesty International and various human rights organizations continue to urge ICC member states to uphold the decision. "ICC member states must commit to ensuring that these individuals are tried before independent ICC judges," asserted Agnes Callamard.

(kpl/ank)