Representative Tlaib calls on ICC to detain Netanyahu for genocide

Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., has called for the International Criminal Court to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, charging him with committing genocide during the Israel-Hamas war.

Tlaib’s statement came as Israel began a ground operation in Rafah. She expressed concern for the families displaced in Rafah, who will face “unimaginable human suffering.”

“Over 1.5 million Palestinian civilians, including over 600,000 children, are trapped in Rafah, living in makeshift tents without access to basic necessities like food, clean water, sanitation, medicine, or shelter,” Tlaib said. “Israeli forces have reportedly killed over 35,000 Palestinians.”

The International Criminal Court is considering issuing arrest warrants against Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for the country’s actions during the Gaza war. Arrest warrants are also being considered against Hamas leadership, as reported by Bloomberg.

Tlaib, the only lawmaker of Palestinian heritage, has denounced Netanyahu’s government as “an apartheid regime.”

“I urge the ICC to swiftly issue arrest warrants for Netanyahu and senior Israeli officials to finally hold them accountable for this genocide,” Tlaib stated.

The U.S. has expressed opposition to the ICC’s investigation and suggested that a cease-fire could be on the horizon, according to The Associated Press. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, following a recent visit to Israel, praised the country’s latest proposal as “extremely generous.”

The U.S. is concerned that Israel may withdraw from a cease-fire if the ICC moves forward with the arrest warrants. The Group of Seven nations are reportedly engaged in quiet diplomatic efforts to convey this message to the court in The Hague, as noted by Axios.

President Joe Biden has communicated his opposition to the investigation to Netanyahu, according to Axios. The Biden administration officials believe that an arrest warrant is not imminent.

The U.S. is not a member of the ICC, formed in 2002, although it has previously cooperated with investigations, including alleged Russian war crimes in Ukraine.

In February, Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor for the ICC, expressed concerns about the Israel-Hamas war and the possibility of an Israeli invasion of Rafah.

“Those who do not adhere to the law should not protest later when my Office takes action as mandated,” Khan declared. “My office is actively investigating alleged crimes, and those found in violation will be held accountable. I also continue to call for the immediate release of all hostages.”

Tlaib faced censure from her colleagues in the House for defending the chant, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” which calls for the elimination of Israel.

Tlaib opted to vote “present” on a resolution condemning rape and sexual violence committed by Hamas, citing its failure to acknowledge sexual assaults by the Israeli Defense Force.