Will the International Criminal Court Issue Arrest Warrant for Israel’s Prime Minister? 

Israel has expressed concerns over potential arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC) targeting government officials for actions during its conflict with Hamas. The ICC is investigating Hamas’ cross-border attack on October 7 and Israel’s subsequent military operations in Gaza.

In response to reports that the ICC may issue warrants against senior Israeli officials, Foreign Minister Israel Katz urged Israeli embassies to enhance security due to the risk of increased antisemitism. Katz emphasized Israel’s expectation that the ICC refrain from targeting its political and security leaders. He said that Israel is determined to resist any such actions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that ICC decisions would not impact Israel’s policies but could establish a dangerous precedent. Israeli officials fear potential arrest warrants for Netanyahu and others over alleged violations in Gaza. The ICC is also reportedly considering warrants for Hamas leaders.

Israel, not a member of the ICC, disputes its jurisdiction, but Palestinian territories were admitted as a member state in 2015. The U.S., an ally of Israel and not an ICC member, does not support the investigation.