Israel considers criminal investigation aiming to avert international prosecution
Gaza (Quds News Network)- The Israeli government has proposed launching a criminal investigation to preempt potential arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The move is reportedly an attempt to shield the top officials from prosecution over war crimes in Gaza.
Israeli Army Radio disclosed that the country’s political leadership suggested this course of action after the ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan criticized the delay in issuing arrest warrants, stating it obstructs justice. The judicial advisor to the Israeli government has also called for the establishment of an official investigative committee to examine the ICC’s allegations thoroughly.
Last week, Khan’s office confirmed that they are pursuing arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant for war crimes. Khan emphasized that there is “reasonable basis” to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant bear criminal responsibility for these crimes committed in Gaza, specifically citing incidents dating back to October 8th.
The claims against the Israeli officials include grave crimes such as the deliberate starvation of civilians as a method of warfare, causing severe physical and mental suffering, intentional killing, and targeting civilian populations—actions that are categorized as war crimes under international law. The ICC also listed crimes against humanity, including persecution and other inhumane acts, based on evidence meticulously gathered and examined by Khan’s office.
In a stark condemnation, Khan asserted that these crimes were part of a systematic and widespread attack against Palestinian civilians, executed under Israeli state policy.
Supported unequivocally by the United States, Israel has continued its devastating military campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths and injuries of over 135,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. Additionally, more than 10,000 Palestinians remain missing amid widespread destruction and famine, marking one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally.
Despite growing international outrage, Israel has persisted with its military operations, openly defying a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire and orders from the International Court of Justice to take measures to prevent genocide and improve the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
