The United States is actively participating in a diplomatic push to prevent the International Criminal Court (ICC) from issuing arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other top officials, amid escalating tensions over alleged human rights violations. This effort comes as Israel, not a signatory to the Rome Statute like the U.S., faces significant international scrutiny.

Israeli media have reported Netanyahu is exerting considerable effort, particularly through engaging the Biden administration, to avert what he describes as a “dangerous precedent” that could threaten democratic nations’ ability to defend themselves against terrorism. According to Walla’s analyst Ben Caspit, Netanyahu is under significant stress as the possibility of arrest warrants looms, which could severely impact Israel’s global standing.

Meanwhile, the ICC’s prosecutor, Karim Khan, is expected to soon decide on the issuance of warrants for Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. The ICC allegations include severe accusations such as the deliberate starvation of Palestinians in Gaza, prompting Israel to enhance its diplomatic and public relations efforts to counteract the potential charges.

In response to these critical developments, the Israeli government has mobilized its National Security Council and Foreign Ministry to engage internationally and clarify Israel’s positions. Additionally, IDF International Spokesman Nadav Shoshani conducted a rare Shabbat briefing for foreign reporters to highlight Israel’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza, further underscoring the nation’s proactive stance against the ICC’s possible actions.

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