Iran’s IRGC Commander Welcomes ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu as a ‘Political Death Sentence’
The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Security Minister Yoav Gallant has sparked global reactions, with Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander General Hossein Salami calling it a pivotal moment marking the “end and political death” of the Israeli regime.
In a televised address, General Salami hailed the ICC’s move as a triumph for justice and accountability, emphasizing that the warrants signify Israel’s “absolute political isolation.” He stated, “This means the end and political death of the Zionist regime, a regime that today lives in isolation worldwide. Its officials can no longer travel freely without fear of arrest.”
ICC’s Decision and International Implications
The ICC issued the warrants on Thursday, citing alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by Israeli forces during the ongoing genocide in Gaza. With over 44,000 Palestinian lives lost and tens of thousands injured in the 412-day Israeli aggression, the ICC’s action has been viewed by many as a landmark in international justice.
The warrants impose potential restrictions on Netanyahu’s international travel, obligating any of the ICC’s 124 member states to detain him upon entry. ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has urged all nations to uphold international law and act decisively on the arrest warrants.
Iran Hails ICC Action as Victory for Resistance Movements
General Salami characterized the ICC’s warrants as a victory for Palestinian and Lebanese resistance movements. Iran’s official stance has welcomed the action, asserting that it underscores the growing accountability for Israel’s alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Israeli and US Criticism of ICC Warrants
Netanyahu and his administration dismissed the ICC’s move, labeling it as politically motivated. The Israeli Prime Minister described the action as “absurd, false, and antisemitic,” while President Isaac Herzog accused the court of siding with terrorism. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar argued that the ICC’s decision marked “a dark moment” and undermined its legitimacy.
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The United States, a key ally of Israel, criticized the ICC’s decision. Notably, U.S. legislators have previously advanced measures to counter ICC actions against Israel. A recent House of Representatives bill proposed sanctions on ICC personnel involved in investigations of Israeli officials. Senator John Thune advocated for immediate legislative action, warning of consequences if the ICC does not reverse its decision.
Arrest Warrants Extend Beyond Netanyahu
The ICC also issued an arrest warrant for Hamas leader Mohammad Deif on charges of alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, further amplifying the court’s stance on holding parties accountable in the ongoing conflict.
As the international community continues to debate the ICC’s role and jurisdiction, the warrants have drawn sharp divides, signaling a new chapter in the quest for justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The long-term ramifications of this decision remain to be seen, but the spotlight on international law and accountability has intensified.