Mary Robinson, Chair of The Elders and former President of Ireland, said:

“The decision by ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan to apply for arrest warrants against the Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri and Ismail Haniyeh, and against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, is a landmark moment in the struggle for justice and accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. There is a case to answer on both sides, which should be heard in a court of law.

The Elders commend the ICC Prosecutor for discharging his mandate with integrity and independence. All states should respect the Court’s authority and impartiality, and ensure its decisions are implemented. Any statements or actions that seek to denigrate, de-legitimise or punish ICC officials for acting in accordance with the Court’s mandate are completely unacceptable. Impunity for atrocity crimes during conflict must end.”

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