Biden Stands by Israel Amid ICC’s Call for Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu’s Actions in Gaza
President Joe Biden has shown support for Israel following the request by International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan for arrest warrants targeting Israeli and Hamas leaders over allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
President Biden refuted the claims made by the prosecutor, asserting that Israeli leaders have not committed war crimes against Palestinian civilians in Gaza, stating: “What’s happening [in the enclave] is not genocide.”
“There is no comparison between Israel and Hamas,” he emphasized, adding that Washington remains committed to Israel’s security.
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The requested arrest warrants also include three Hamas leaders—Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh—for their involvement in killings, kidnappings, sexual violence, and torture during the attack on Israel.
Blinken Questions ICC Prosecutor’s Investigation
Secretary of State Antony Blinken denounced the warrant applications, condemning the equating of Israeli leaders with Hamas terrorists.
“It is abhorrent. Hamas, a brutal terrorist organization, committed a heinous attack against Jews and continues to hold innocent individuals captive, including Americans,” he stated.
Mr. Blinken expressed concerns that the prosecutor’s actions might hinder peace negotiations, which aim to secure the release of hostages and improve humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
He reiterated that the court lacks jurisdiction over the Israel-Hamas conflict, noting Israel’s willingness to cooperate despite not being an ICC member.
Mr. Blinken also mentioned the failed meeting between Mr. Khan’s team and Israeli officials, questioning the credibility and legitimacy of the investigation.
The Israeli leader denounced the warrant applications, describing them as an injustice and an attempt to hinder Israel’s right to self-defense.
Mr. Netanyahu criticized the prosecutor for drawing a false moral equivalency between Israeli leaders and Hamas officials, comparing it to equating President Bush with Osama Bin Laden after 9/11 or FDR with Hitler during World War II.
“Despite the baseless allegations, Israel will continue to engage in this conflict in accordance with international law,” he asserted.
Ryan Morgan contributed to this report.
