The Hague: The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan, has rejected a request from the Israeli government to reconsider the international arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Galant. The warrants were originally issued by the court on November 21, citing charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the protracted conflict in Gaza. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Karim Khan stated that the request to reconsider the arrest warrants is "not relevant at the present time." However, he noted that such a request could be submitted during later stages of the judicial proceedings. The arrest warrants are part of the ICC's response to the ongoing conflict, which has seen significant international scrutiny. The conflict, which intensified after October 7, 2023, has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences in Gaza. Reports indicate that over 149,000 Palestinians have been killed or injured, with a significant nu mber of victims being children and women. Additionally, more than 10,000 people are reported missing amidst widespread destruction and famine, marking one of the worst humanitarian crises globally. Despite international condemnation, Israel has continued its military actions in Gaza, disregarding a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The International Court of Justice has also issued directives for Israel to take measures to prevent further acts of genocide and to improve the dire humanitarian conditions in the region.
