Iranian Khamenei demands death penalty for Israelis Netanyahu and Gallant

As Israel challenges the court’s jurisdiction and continues its military operations in Gaza, the international community remains divided on how best to resolve this complex and escalating conflict.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei sparked international controversy on Monday when he stated that Israeli leaders should face the death penalty rather than an arrest warrant. This statement came in response to the recent decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leader Ibrahim El Masri.

Khamenei’s Strong Condemnation of ICC’s Arrest Warrants

Khamenei criticized this move by the ICC, claimed that the arrest warrants were insufficient, and called for the “death penalty” for Israeli leaders, whom he described as “criminal”. He made his comments in a speech to the Israeli leadership, emphasizing that he believed the charges against them were too mild.

The ICC issued the arrest warrant on Thursday after judges found “reasonable grounds” to believe Netanyahu and Gallant were responsible for war crimes during Israel’s military actions in Gaza, including murder, cruelty and the use of starvation as a weapon of war. These actions are part of what the ICC describes as a “widespread and systematic attack on the civilian population of Gaza”.

Israel’s Response: Condemning the ICC Decision

Israel reacted angrily, condemning the ICC decision as “shameful” and “absurd”. Israeli officials reiterated their stance that they had not committed war crimes in Gaza, arguing that the court did not have jurisdiction over their actions. Despite the court’s findings, Israel staunchly challenges the authority of the Hague-based court.

ICC Order Against Hamas Leaders

In addition to the arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, the ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Ibrahim Al Masri, who is accused of orchestrating mass killings against Israel on October 7, 2023, the beginning of the conflict. Additional charges include accusations of rape and hostage-taking.

While Israel claimed to have killed Masri, also known as Mohammed Deif, in a July airstrike, Hamas neither confirmed nor denied this claim; This leaves his fate uncertain.

Gazans Hope for Justice

Contrary to Israel’s denial, many residents of Gaza expressed hope that the ICC’s actions would end the violence and ensure justice for alleged victims of war crimes.

The Ongoing Debate over Responsibility for War Crimes

Tensions around the ICC decision reflect broader divisions over accountability for war crimes. As Israel challenges the court’s jurisdiction and continues its military operations in Gaza, the international community remains divided on how best to resolve this complex and escalating conflict.

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