Jerusalem: Former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s controversial remarks have led to the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing arrest warrants against him for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed Gallant on Tuesday, appointing Foreign Minister Israel Katz as his replacement, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority.
According to Anadolu Agency, three of Gallant’s statements have come under intense international scrutiny for potentially violating international law. On October 9, 2023, Gallant declared a ‘complete siege’ on Gaza, stating that there would be no electricity, food, water, or fuel. This blockade has faced criticism globally, as it raises concerns of constituting collective punishment, which is prohibited under international law.
In the same announcement, Gallant referred to Hamas militants as ‘human animals,’ a phrase criticized for its dehumanizing nature, which could incite violence against civilians. Additionally
, in August 2023, Gallant warned of a potential response to Hezbollah, suggesting that Israel could ‘return Lebanon to the Stone Age’ if attacked. This remark was interpreted as a threat of using disproportionate force against civilian infrastructure.
These statements have led the ICC to issue arrest warrants for Gallant. ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan stated on May 20 that he had requested arrest warrants for both Netanyahu and Gallant for crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza. Israel has continued its offensive on Gaza following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas, resulting in nearly 43,400 deaths and leaving the enclave almost uninhabitable. The nation also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the blockaded enclave.