France and Germany have officially declared its support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the court prosecutor’s request for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several Hamas leaders.
The warrants are in connection with war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the Gaza Strip. Israel has killed more than 35,500 Palestinians since October 7, 2023 in Gaza.
The announcement was made by the French Foreign Ministry, highlighting France’s commitment to international justice and accountability.
This endorsement marks a notable development in international relations, as it places one of Europe’s key nations firmly behind the ICC’s controversial actions.
French officials emphasised that this support aligns with France’s longstanding principles of upholding human rights and the rule of law.
They reiterated the necessity for thorough investigations and fair trials to address the serious allegations of war crimes.
The ICC’s move to issue arrest warrants stems from ongoing investigations into the ingoing genocide in Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, along with top Hamas officials, faces accusations of committing acts that violate international humanitarian law, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians and other severe offences.
France’s backing of the ICC’s initiative may have wide-ranging implications for international diplomacy and the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
