US Secretary of State Antony Blinken testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on May 21, 2024, expressing a desire to collaborate with Congress on legislation to penalize the International Criminal Court (ICC). This response follows the ICC’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the conflict in Gaza.

The ICC’s request has sparked strong reactions globally. Belgium, Slovenia, and France have supported the decision, while the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic condemned it, arguing that the ICC lacks jurisdiction. The announcement exacerbates Israel’s international isolation amidst ongoing conflict and growing domestic and foreign criticism of Netanyahu’s leadership.

Back in Gaza, violence continues with Israeli raids resulting in Palestinian casualties, further complicating the situation. Meanwhile, US President Biden reiterated support for Israel’s right to self-defense, reflecting a complex and divided international stance on the issue. A panel of ICC judges is set to deliberate on whether to issue the requested arrest warrants.

The British government, in parallel, faces scrutiny over arms sales to Israel, with upcoming disclosures expected about the legality of these transactions amid the ongoing conflict. The situation remains intense as diplomatic efforts and legal maneuvers unfold.