President Herzog Discusses ICC Challenges with Secretary Blinken Amidst Middle East Conflict
"Trying to use the International Criminal Court against Israel, which is fighting terror, is a clear and present danger to democracies and to free peace-loving nations who pursue the norms of international law, and I call upon all our allies and friends to object and reject any such efforts."
As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has embarked on a crucial diplomatic mission in the Middle East, focusing on de-escalating tensions and promoting stability in the region. Blinken’s tour included strategic stops in Jordan, Israel, and the Palestinian territories, aimed at advancing peace negotiations and securing a ceasefire.
In Jordan, Blinken met with King Abdullah II, discussing the role of Jordan and other moderate Arab states in facilitating peace talks and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. These discussions underscored the importance of Arab involvement in fostering a sustainable peace process.
During a Wednesday meeting with U.S. Secretary, Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed concerns over potential arrest warrants that might be issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli officials. Herzog highlighted the challenging situation Israel faces while defending its citizens and pursuing peace in the Middle East.
Herzog stated, "While we are waging war to defend our citizens and bring about a different future in the Middle East, our enemies and other elements are trying to undermine the entire process by using international legal forums that were established to have a world order that pursues peace and the values and norms that we all believe in in the modern world, especially the efforts done at the International Criminal Court."
He emphasized the strength of Israel's legal system and its adherence to international legal standards, asserting, "Israel has a very strong legal system, very strong adjudication and law enforcement system, and it has pursued legal steps from the highest authorities in this land to any other citizen. We're very proud of it, and the rule of international law regarding complementarity is a basic lawyer world norm."
Herzog concluded by addressing the implications of targeting Israel through the ICC: "Therefore, trying to use the International Criminal Court against Israel, which is fighting terror, is a clear and present danger to democracies and to free peace-loving nations who pursue the norms of international law, and I call upon all our allies and friends to object and reject any such efforts."
Secretary Blinken is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They plan to discuss the details of a possible ceasefire, which may include negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas since October 7. The U.S. is focused on finding a resolution that not only addresses security concerns but also facilitates a humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Blinken is also scheduled for meetings with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi. Additionally, he will inspect the Kerem Shalom Crossing and Ashdod Port to assess the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. His itinerary also includes a meeting with the families of American hostages in Tel Aviv later in the day.
