Israeli President Isaac Herzog, speaking during a press briefing with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Tel Aviv, issued a stark warning against the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) reported investigation into Israeli leaders, describing it as a “clear and present danger to all democracies and to free and peace-loving nations.”
Herzog urged Israel’s “allies and friends” to reject efforts to use the ICC against Israel, emphasizing the potential consequences of such actions.
The ICC is reportedly investigating Israeli operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, raising concerns among senior Israeli officials. There are fears that the court could issue warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders.
Herzog’s comments come amid growing apprehension within the Israeli government over the ICC’s probe, which has the potential to escalate tensions between Israel and the international community.
The Israeli president’s warning underscores the gravity of the situation, with Israeli officials viewing the ICC investigation as a direct threat to the country’s sovereignty and to the principles of democracy and peace.
The ICC’s actions have drawn condemnation from Israel and its allies, who argue that the court’s investigation is politically motivated and undermines Israel’s right to defend itself against security threats.
Israeli leaders are intensifying their efforts to rally international support against what they perceive as a biased and unjust investigation. The outcome of the ICC’s investigation could have far-reaching implications for Israel’s relationship with the international community and for the prospects of peace in the region. As tensions escalate, the situation remains fluid, with all eyes on the developments unfolding in the coming days.