IJL Statement on ICC’s Decision to Issue Arrest Warrants Against Israeli Leaders

The International Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists (IJL) expresses deep concern over the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) decision to issue arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Minister Yoav Gallant.

This decision to issue arrest warrants against the leaders of the State of Israel, a democratic State with an independent, robust and well-respected system of criminal law enforcement, marks a troubling development that undermines the mandate of the Court and the principles of justice it was established to uphold.

In dismissing Israel’s arguments, the Court relied on exceedingly weak legal grounds. For instance, it dismissed core jurisdictional challenges over Israeli nationals, basing its decision solely on the contested issue of Palestinian statehood.

While the evidentiary basis for the warrants remains secret, the Court’s press release reveals a reliance on partial, selective, and biased sources.

These indications point to a politically motivated, anti-Israeli initiative that risks undermining the credibility, role, and future of the ICC. Such actions turn the Court into a tool for those seeking to cynically weaponize international law.

The IJL calls on law-abiding states, organizations, and individuals within the international community to oppose this abuse of international law. It is imperative to safeguard the integrity of international institutions and ensure that they remain true to their mission of delivering impartial justice, free from political manipulation.