Arrest Warrant Issued for War Criminal Netanyahu in Turkey
An arrest warrant has been issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the main culprit responsible for the genocide in the Gaza Strip. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza. The court also ruled that it has jurisdiction over crimes committed in Palestinian territories, rejecting Israel’s objections to the ICC’s jurisdiction.
Responsibility for Crimes
The court found reasonable grounds to hold Netanyahu and Gallant responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024. The ruling stated that both suspects deliberately obstructed the delivery of vital supplies such as food, water, medicine, fuel, and electricity to the civilian population in Gaza.
The court noted that even when Israel allowed humanitarian aid, it was often due to pressure from the international community or demands from the US, and the aid never reached a level sufficient to meet the needs of the people in Gaza. The ruling highlighted the obstruction of medical supplies and drugs, particularly anesthesia drugs and equipment, leading to doctors having to perform surgeries on the wounded and children without anesthesia materials.
Travel Restrictions
The enforcement of the ICC’s arrest warrants falls under the obligations of member countries according to Articles 86 and 87 of the Rome Statute. According to Article 89 of the statute, if Netanyahu and Gallant travel to any country that is a party to the ICC, the competent authorities of that country must arrest and surrender them to the court in The Hague. It is noted that Netanyahu and Gallant will not be able to travel to 124 member countries of the ICC, including Canada, Australia, the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Sweden.
International Response
The ICC’s decision came after six months of the chief prosecutor’s request for arrest, despite ongoing pressure from the US and Israeli administrations to prevent the decision. Consequently, the ICC’s ruling was a blow to the image of the US and Israel. The first response from Europe came from the Netherlands, stating that they would implement the ICC’s decision when necessary. Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç described the ICC’s decision as “delayed but positive.”
Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz expressed support for the ICC’s decision, stating that it was hopeful for the realization of justice. He emphasized that those responsible for the genocide and war crimes in Palestine would be held accountable. Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Numan Kurtulmuş considered the decision as a support to the innocent and oppressed Palestinian people. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the arrest warrant was promising for the realization of justice and that they would continue to work to enforce international law to punish genocide.
Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç emphasized the need for Israeli officials who committed war and human rights crimes to be brought to justice as soon as possible. AK Party Spokesperson Ömer Çelik highlighted that the ICC’s unanimous arrest warrant was a decision made in the name of humanity and that these two individuals would be held accountable.
Implications of the Genocide Case
The International Criminal Court, based in The Hague, was established in 2002 to investigate and prosecute the most serious international crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression. Experts believe that while the arrest warrant issued for Netanyahu may remain symbolic, it will be crucial for holding Israel accountable for genocide. In addition to the case at the ICC, there is an ongoing genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice initiated by South Africa. The arrest warrant for Netanyahu, known as the Butcher of Gaza, will also impact the outcome of the case in the International Court of Justice.
South Africa’s Ambassador to The Hague, Vusi Madonsela, spoke about the genocide case against Israel brought by his country to the International Court of Justice. Madonsela emphasized the rarity of such a clear expression of genocidal intent, particularly in the context of dehumanizing Gaza, as a significant factor in proving their case. He mentioned presenting thousands of pages of evidence.
The arrest warrant issued for Netanyahu in Turkey marks a significant step towards justice and accountability for the crimes committed in Gaza. It sends a strong message that individuals responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity will be held accountable, regardless of their position or power. The international community’s support for the ICC’s decision underscores the importance of upholding international law and ensuring justice for victims of atrocities.
