Israeli authorities suspect that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is gearing up to issue arrest warrants concerning the conflict with Hamas. They suggest that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli officials may face charges, while Hamas leaders might also be targeted.

It’s increasingly believed by Israeli and foreign officials alike that the ICC is contemplating warrants for senior Israeli government figures and Hamas leaders. Potential allegations against Israeli officials could involve obstructing humanitarian aid to Gaza and responding excessively to Hamas-led attacks on Israel. However, specific charges and individuals from Hamas are yet unclear.

These suspicions among Israeli officials raise concerns about the potential repercussions of ICC action. Prime Minister Netanyahu is believed to be among those at risk of being named in warrants. However, the precise information prompting these concerns remains undisclosed.

Potential arrest warrants from the ICC could carry significant symbolic weight globally, especially for Israel, which has faced international criticism over its actions in Gaza. This development could also influence Israeli policies regarding its military operations against Hamas.

Israeli and foreign officials have yet to discover the exact stage of the ICC process. Any warrants would require approval from a panel of judges and might not necessarily lead to trials or immediate arrests of the targets.

While ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has confirmed previous investigations into incidents during the conflict, his office declined to comment on these specific allegations. Netanyahu’s office also refrained from commenting directly, but the prime minister expressed concerns on social media about the ICC’s potential actions, emphasising Israel’s right to self-defence.

The ICC, based in The Hague, holds the distinction of being the world’s sole permanent international court empowered to prosecute individuals for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. However, it lacks its police force and relies on member states for enforcement.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, particularly the October 7 attacks, resulted in significant casualties and sparked investigations into potential war crimes by both parties. The aftermath has prompted international scrutiny, including accusations of genocide against Israel and protests in the United States.

Potential arrest warrants from the ICC would carry a significant stigma, equating those named with other controversial figures subject to ICC warrants. The ICC’s focus on individuals distinguishes it from the International Court of Justice, which handles disputes between states.

Prosecutor Khan has pledged to impartially investigate incidents since October 7 and uphold the rights of victims in both Israel and Palestine. This investigation follows earlier probes into alleged war crimes during the 2014 conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Hamas and the Israeli military have yet to respond to requests for comment. In contrast, Israeli officials maintain their adherence to the laws of war, accusing Hamas of using civilian areas for military operations. Hamas denies committing atrocities and claims to have avoided civilian casualties despite contrary evidence.