The Hague (TDI): The International Criminal Court (ICC) has rejected Israel’s request to halt an investigation into alleged war crimes committed during the Gaza conflict, allowing prosecutors to press ahead with the long-running probe.
In its ruling, the court dismissed Israel’s challenge to the ICC’s jurisdiction, reaffirming that the investigation into actions taken during the Gaza war will continue.
The decision also means that arrest warrants issued last year for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant remain in force.
Israel, which is not a member of the Hague-based court, strongly criticized the ruling. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said the decision reflected the ICC’s disregard for the sovereign rights of states that are not party to the court, reiterating its long-held position that the ICC has no authority over Israel.
Tel Aviv also continues to deny allegations of war crimes, insisting its military campaign in Gaza was aimed at dismantling Hamas following the October 7 attacks.
The ICC investigation focuses on alleged violations of international humanitarian law during Israel’s military operations in Gaza, where large-scale destruction and civilian casualties have been reported.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, figures frequently cited by the United Nations, around 67,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began, while much of the enclave’s infrastructure has been reduced to rubble.
The court had earlier issued arrest warrants for both Israeli and Hamas figures, including Hamas leader Ibrahim al-Masri, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. However, the warrant against al-Masri was later withdrawn following credible reports of his death.
A ceasefire agreement took effect on October 10, easing hostilities but doing little to reverse Gaza’s dire humanitarian conditions. Aid agencies warn that shortages of food, shelter, and medical supplies remain severe despite the pause in fighting.
Human rights organizations welcomed the ICC’s decision, saying it reinforces the principle that no party is above international law and that accountability is essential for victims of conflict.
Palestinian officials also praised the ruling, describing it as an important step toward justice.
The latest decision addresses only one of several legal challenges Israel has filed against the ICC’s investigation and arrest warrants. The court has yet to set a timeline for ruling on the remaining objections, suggesting that legal battles over the case are likely to continue.
Minahil Khurshid holds a Master's in Peace and Conflict Studies from NUST. She is passionate about current affairs, public policy, and geopolitics.
