ICC prosecutor urges arrest warrants for Israeli officials

In filings made public on Friday, Khan emphasized that any delays in the proceedings would adversely affect the rights of victims. He insisted that the court has the authority to investigate and prosecute Israeli officials, despite challenges based on the Oslo Accords and Israel's claims of conducting its own investigations into alleged war crimes.

"It is settled law that the Court has jurisdiction in this situation," Khan stated in his submission, dismissing arguments presented by several governments and other parties that have contested the ICC's authority in this matter.

The call for urgency comes as Israel continues its military offensive in Gaza, which has been ongoing since October 7. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 40,265 Palestinians and injuries to over 93,144 others, according to Palestinian and international organizations. The majority of those killed and injured are reported to be women and children.

Additionally, around 10,000 people remain unaccounted for, presumed to be buried under the rubble of their homes. The ongoing violence has also led to the displacement of nearly two million people within Gaza, many of whom have been forced into the southern city of Rafah, creating what is described as the largest mass exodus of Palestinians since the 1948 Nakba.

The ICC's involvement follows a legally binding decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordering Israel to cease its military operations in Rafah, citing potential violations of the Genocide Convention. Despite this, Israel has continued its actions in Gaza, prompting increased scrutiny and calls for accountability from the international community.

Khan's insistence on the ICC's jurisdiction and the need for prompt action underscores the escalating legal and diplomatic pressure on Israeli leaders amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. (ILKHA)