The Arab Council commends the decision of the Pre-Trial Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in connection with the grave violations committed by the occupying forces in the Gaza Strip. The charges against them include war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza since October 8, 2023.

This decision represents a significant step toward achieving international justice and underscores the importance of holding accountable those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity that targeted Palestinian civilians. It sends a clear message that no one is exempt from international law, regardless of their position or influence, and that there is no place for impunity for such crimes. Just as the Council has previously made all efforts to support international legal mechanisms in the International Court of Justice and the ICC, it reaffirms its commitment to continuing its support for the ICC’s processes and will soon call for an expanded list of charges against Israeli leaders.

The Palestinian people, especially in the Gaza Strip, have suffered for many years from oppression, siege, and systematic military aggression that have claimed the lives of thousands of innocent civilians, destroyed infrastructure, and led to catastrophic humanitarian conditions. This decision renews hope for the possibility of justice and strengthens faith in the role of international institutions in protecting human rights and holding perpetrators of crimes accountable.

The Arab Council calls on the international community to support this step and continue with the investigation and legal proceedings to ensure the execution of these warrants, and to end the policy of impunity that Israeli leaders have benefited from for decades. We also call for providing all forms of support to the Palestinian people and for working to end the occupation and achieve a just and comprehensive peace that guarantees the legitimate rights of Palestinians.

In conclusion, we affirm our full solidarity with the Palestinian people and our support for all efforts aimed at ending their suffering and achieving international justice.

The Arab Council
President Moncef Marzouki