Iranian Revolutionary Guards Chief Comments on ICC Arrest Warrants for Israeli Leaders
In a noteworthy development, General Hossein Salami, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards chief, declared that the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant represent the “political death” of Israel. Salami stated that the move indicates the end of the Zionist regime, which is currently in a state of political isolation. According to him, due to these arrest warrants, Israeli leaders can no longer travel internationally.
ICC’s Arrest Warrants
The Hague-based ICC has issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu, Gallant, and Mohammed Deif, the head of Hamas’s military wing, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. These warrants were categorized as “secret” to safeguard witnesses and facilitate investigations.
Israel’s Response to the ICC’s Decision
Reacting to the ICC’s decision, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized the international court, claiming it had lost all legitimacy by issuing such “absurd orders.” Saar accused the ICC of behaving like a political tool serving extremist elements undermining the Middle East’s security and stability. He further contended that the court had no authority to issue orders against Netanyahu and Gallant.
About the ICC
The ICC, a permanent institution, is tasked with the prosecution and trial of individuals charged with genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Established in 2002, the 124-member institution has delivered only a few convictions since its inception. Notably, Israel is not a member of the ICC.
