The International Criminal Court on Wednesday slammed the US decision to sanction its senior staff, including the court's President and a senior prosecution lawyer, calling it a “flagrant attack” on the independence of the tribunal and vowed to continue seeking justice for atrocities around the world. The court said it remains "undeterred" and stands behind all its staff.In a statement, the court said that when “judicial actors are threatened for applying the law, it is the international legal order itself that is placed at risk.” It said the court “will continue to fully discharge its mandate with independence and impartiality.”&nbsp;The US State Department on Tuesday said that it had hit ICC President Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national, and ICC senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, a Senegalese national, with sanctions. Any assets they have in US jurisdiction or the US financial system will be frozen. The US have now sanctioned nine of the ICC’s 18 judges, both of its deputy prosecutors, its former chief prosecutor and one other prosecution office staffer.The US claims that the court has overstepped its boundaries by investigating senior military and political officials from countries, such as Israel and the United States, that are not members of the court.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-seeks-life-term-tarun-tejpal-rape-case-1787078451982">Goa seeks life term for Tarun Tejpal, challenges 10-year rape sentence</a><h2>Japan, Germany and Netherlands oppose US sanctions&nbsp;</h2>Japan’s foreign ministry said the decision to sanction Akane and Seye was “very unfortunate.” Japan is the ICC’s largest financial contributor and has previously raised concerns over the unilateral sanctions by the US government, which risks dismantling the independent global judicial framework.“Japan has consistently supported the ICC, which is a permanent international criminal court, in its efforts to prosecute and punish ‌the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.” Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.Germany has strongly opposed the US decision, declaring that it "stands with" the ICC President Tomoko Akane. “It is of central importance to defend and protect the International Criminal Court as an independent institution,” said a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Germany noted the additional US measures "with regret" and reiterated Berlin's absolute opposition to sanctions targeting judges and prosecutors.As the host nation of the tribunal in The Hague, Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen publicly opposed the sanctions, reaffirming Dutch backing and inviting ICC President Tomoko Akane to discuss continued operational support.&nbsp;

The ICC has condemned US sanctions on its President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye as a “flagrant attack” on judicial independence. 

The International Criminal Court on Wednesday slammed the US decision to sanction its senior staff, including the court's President and a senior prosecution lawyer, calling it a “flagrant attack” on the independence of the tribunal and vowed to continue seeking justice for atrocities around the world. The court said it remains "undeterred" and stands behind all its staff. In a statement, the court said that when “judicial actors are threatened for applying the law, it is the international legal order itself that is placed at risk.” It said the court “will continue to fully discharge its mandate with independence and impartiality.” The US State Department on Tuesday said that it had hit ICC President Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national, and ICC senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, a Senegalese national, with sanctions. Any assets they have in US jurisdiction or the US financial system will be frozen. The US have now sanctioned nine of the ICC’s 18 judges, both of its deputy prosecutors, its former chief prosecutor and one other prosecution office staffer. The US claims that the court has overstepped its boundaries by investigating senior military and political officials from countries, such as Israel and the United States, that are not members of the court. Also Read: Goa seeks life term for Tarun Tejpal, challenges 10-year rape sentence Japan, Germany and Netherlands oppose US sanctions Japan’s foreign ministry said the decision to sanction Akane and Seye was “very unfortunate.” Japan is the ICC’s largest financial contributor and has previously raised concerns over the unilateral sanctions by the US government, which risks dismantling the independent global judicial framework. “Japan has consistently supported the ICC, which is a permanent international criminal court, in its efforts to prosecute and punish ‌the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.” Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Germany has strongly opposed the US decision, declaring that it "stands with" the ICC President Tomoko Akane. “It is of central importance to defend and protect the International Criminal Court as an independent institution,” said a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Germany noted the additional US measures "with regret" and reiterated Berlin's absolute opposition to sanctions targeting judges and prosecutors. As the host nation of the tribunal in The Hague, Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen publicly opposed the sanctions, reaffirming Dutch backing and inviting ICC President Tomoko Akane to discuss continued operational support.

The ICC has condemned US sanctions on its President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye as a “flagrant attack” on judicial independence.&nbsp;

ICC condemns US sanctions as ‘flagrant attack’; Japan, Germany and Netherlands back tribunal

US President Donald Trump has said that Venezuela is not yet ready for elections, while praising the country's recent economic progress, particularly its recovering oil industry. Trump credited Venezuela's acting leadership for improving oil production and claimed the country's economy had significantly recovered. However, he said elections would only take place when conditions are right. His remarks come as Venezuela continues to recover from devastating twin earthquakes that have claimed more than 5,398 lives, with thousands still displaced. At the same time, Caracas has announced its decision to permanently withdraw from the International

Trump on Venezuela Elections | Says country 'not ready yet' | US News 

Israel has delayed the public release of findings from internal investigations into alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict. The postponed report reportedly covers several high-profile incidents, including strikes involving humanitarian aid workers. The delay comes as international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations and legal challenges at global courts continues to intensify.

Israel delays release of Gaza war crimes investigation findings amid international scrutiny


New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has confirmed that his administration is consulting legal advisers over the possibility of arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits New York for the United Nations General Assembly in September. Netanyahu is the subject of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant over alleged crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict. Mamdani, who pledged during his mayoral campaign to enforce the ICC warrant, says the matter is now under legal review. The remarks have sparked renewed debate over international law, diplomatic immunity, and the authority of local governments in the United States.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani considers Netanyahu arrest during un visit | ICC warrant controversy

US President Donald Trump and his administration have been sued by three judges of the International Criminal Court over sanctions imposed on them last year. The ICC judges argue that the measures were illegal and designed to pressure the court through financial punishment. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Manhattan, was brought by judges Kimberly Prost of Canada, Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda and Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou of Benin. The judges said the sanctions were meant to coerce them and interfere with their judicial independence.<h2>Did Trump try to punish ICC judges?</h2>According to the complaint, the sanctions were intended to punish judges for decisions taken by the court, rather than respond to any genuine national emergency.Last year, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on several ICC judges in a sharp escalation against the tribunal after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and after earlier proceedings involving alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-not-going-to-be-bullied-trump-gets-in-to-shouting-match-with-republican-senator-over-iran-war-as-questions-grow-over-peace-deal-1782346277095">'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal</a><h2>What did these sanctions do?</h2>The impact of sanctions is wide-ranging. The sanctions severely hamper individuals’ ability to carry out even routine financial transactions, as any bank with ties to the United States or that conducts transactions in dollars is expected to comply with the restrictions.The judges also said the sanctions had severely disrupted their daily lives, describing the effect as the financial equivalent of a death sentence. They said they could no longer use credit cards, access banking services, book travel, or, in some cases, even obtain health insurance."Being subjected to such sanctions under IEEPA is tantamount to the financial death penalty. Due to the sanctions, Judges Prost, Bossa, and Alapini-Gansou are no longer able, among other ⁠things, to ​use credit cards; access banking services; use common online platforms, such as ​Amazon and Google; book travel; and in some cases, obtain health insurance," it said.The ICC, based in The Hague and established in 2002, has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in its member states. But some major countries, including the United States, China, Russia and Israel, do not recognise its authority.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meloni-signals-truce-after-extraordinary-public-spat-with-trump-i-don-t-intend-to-keep-fuelling-this-dispute-1782265096024">Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute'</a><h2>ICC judges slam ‘Sanctions Regime’</h2>In their lawsuit, the judges said the sanctions exceeded the powers granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA. They argued that the law was being stretched beyond its intended use because there was no true emergency or extraordinary threat that justified the penalties."The Sanctions Regime ... is designed to exert extra-judicial pressure on these judges and their colleagues on the ICC bench," the lawsuit said, adding that the purpose was to punish them for prior rulings and pressure them to change how they decide cases.The complaint further claims that the sanctions prevent them from submitting evidence or legal arguments in current or future cases before the court. &nbsp;

Three International Criminal Court judges have sued Donald Trump and his administration, arguing that sanctions imposed against them amounted to a "financial death penalty" designed to punish judicial decisions and pressure the court. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump and his administration have been sued by three judges of the International Criminal Court over sanctions imposed on them last year. The ICC judges argue that the measures were illegal and designed to pressure the court through financial punishment. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Manhattan, was brought by judges Kimberly Prost of Canada, Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda and Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou of Benin. The judges said the sanctions were meant to coerce them and interfere with their judicial independence. Did Trump try to punish ICC judges? According to the complaint, the sanctions were intended to punish judges for decisions taken by the court, rather than respond to any genuine national emergency. Last year, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on several ICC judges in a sharp escalation against the tribunal after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and after earlier proceedings involving alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan. Also read | 'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal What did these sanctions do? The impact of sanctions is wide-ranging. The sanctions severely hamper individuals’ ability to carry out even routine financial transactions, as any bank with ties to the United States or that conducts transactions in dollars is expected to comply with the restrictions. The judges also said the sanctions had severely disrupted their daily lives, describing the effect as the financial equivalent of a death sentence. They said they could no longer use credit cards, access banking services, book travel, or, in some cases, even obtain health insurance. "Being subjected to such sanctions under IEEPA is tantamount to the financial death penalty. Due to the sanctions, Judges Prost, Bossa, and Alapini-Gansou are no longer able, among other ⁠things, to use credit cards; access banking services; use common online platforms, such as Amazon and Google; book travel; and in some cases, obtain health insurance," it said. The ICC, based in The Hague and established in 2002, has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in its member states. But some major countries, including the United States, China, Russia and Israel, do not recognise its authority. Also read | Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute' ICC judges slam ‘Sanctions Regime’ In their lawsuit, the judges said the sanctions exceeded the powers granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA. They argued that the law was being stretched beyond its intended use because there was no true emergency or extraordinary threat that justified the penalties. "The Sanctions Regime ... is designed to exert extra-judicial pressure on these judges and their colleagues on the ICC bench," the lawsuit said, adding that the purpose was to punish them for prior rulings and pressure them to change how they decide cases. The complaint further claims that the sanctions prevent them from submitting evidence or legal arguments in current or future cases before the court.

Three International Criminal Court judges have sued Donald Trump and his administration, arguing that sanctions imposed against them amounted to a "financial death penalty" designed to punish judicial decisions and pressure the court. All you need to know.

'Financial death penalty': ICC judges sue Trump over sanctions linked to Netanyahu warrant

Niger's military-led government has officially submitted its request to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Hague-based tribunal announced on Tuesday. The move comes nine months after Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, declared their intention to withdraw from the court. The three Sahelian nations are all governed by hardline military regimes that came to power in coups between 2020 and 2023 and have increasingly distanced themselves from the West. In September 2025, they jointly accused the ICC of serving as a tool of neo-colonial domination and imperial influence. According to a statement provided to AFP on Tuesday, the ICC stated that it had received an instrument of withdrawal on June 18 from Niger, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-fully-and-completely-agreed-to-highest-level-nuclear-inspection-trump-s-big-claim-amid-switzerland-talks-1782214814586">‘Iran has fully and completely agreed to highest level nuclear inspection’: Trump's big claim amid Switzerland talks</a><h3>Deadly violence from jihadist groups</h3>The withdrawal will become effective on June 18, 2027, one year after the notification date. Until then, Niger remains bound by its obligations under the court's framework. "While joining or withdrawing from a treaty remains a sovereign right of States under international law, we regret any decision to depart from the collective effort to end impunity for the most serious international crimes," the ICC said in its statement.&nbsp;WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-nsa-meet-iran-accuses-uae-of-direct-role-in-military-aggression-1782224829660/embed Meanwhile, the ICC made no mention of Mali or Burkina Faso in its statement. The three Sahelian nations are experiencing deadly violence from jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State; however, their militaries are also accused of crimes against citizens. The International Criminal Court was founded in 2002 with the mission to prosecute the perpetrators of the most serious crimes, such as war crimes, when countries lack the will or capacity to do so themselves. The ICC has 125 member states at the moment. The United States and Russia are not among them, nor are Israel, China, or Myanmar. &nbsp;

The three Sahelian nations are experiencing deadly violence from jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State; additionally, their militaries are also accused of crimes against citizens.

Niger's military-led government has officially submitted its request to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), the Hague-based tribunal announced on Tuesday. The move comes nine months after Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, declared their intention to withdraw from the court. The three Sahelian nations are all governed by hardline military regimes that came to power in coups between 2020 and 2023 and have increasingly distanced themselves from the West. In September 2025, they jointly accused the ICC of serving as a tool of neo-colonial domination and imperial influence. According to a statement provided to AFP on Tuesday, the ICC stated that it had received an instrument of withdrawal on June 18 from Niger, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani. Also read: ‘Iran has fully and completely agreed to highest level nuclear inspection’: Trump's big claim amid Switzerland talks Deadly violence from jihadist groups The withdrawal will become effective on June 18, 2027, one year after the notification date. Until then, Niger remains bound by its obligations under the court's framework. "While joining or withdrawing from a treaty remains a sovereign right of States under international law, we regret any decision to depart from the collective effort to end impunity for the most serious international crimes," the ICC said in its statement. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-nsa-meet-iran-accuses-uae-of-direct-role-in-military-aggression-1782224829660/embed Meanwhile, the ICC made no mention of Mali or Burkina Faso in its statement. The three Sahelian nations are experiencing deadly violence from jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State; however, their militaries are also accused of crimes against citizens. The International Criminal Court was founded in 2002 with the mission to prosecute the perpetrators of the most serious crimes, such as war crimes, when countries lack the will or capacity to do so themselves. The ICC has 125 member states at the moment. The United States and Russia are not among them, nor are Israel, China, or Myanmar.

The three Sahelian nations are experiencing deadly violence from jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State; additionally, their militaries are also accused of crimes against citizens.

Niger files official withdrawal request from International Criminal Court: Here's why

The International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is facing allegations of sexual misconduct with a female aide. He has been suspended following an extensive disciplinary review, and was announced on Monday night by the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the court's executive oversight body. But the decision and related documentation will remain confidential, the NYT cited anonymous sources to suggest that a majority of the bureau members had found that Mr Khan had committed serious misconduct.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Karim Khan? What are the allegations?</h2>Karim Khan is a prominent British lawyer and King's Counsel. 56-year old Khan began his career as a domestic prosecutor in the United Kingdom before transitioning into the field of international criminal law. He had spent nearly three decades specialising in international criminal law and human rights. He is best known for seeking arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin, Israeli top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior Hamas leaders.The allegations against Khan stem from one of his female aides in her late-30s, who had accused Khan of engaging in coercive and non-consensual sexual behaviour for an extended period between 2023 and 2024. According to AP, which cites whistleblower documents, Khan spotted the woman in another department and moved her to his office. She was asked to accompany him on private trips, where Khan reportedly “sexually touched her” and engaged in other non-consensual behaviour.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-agri-export-crisis-nepal-japan-china-compliance-failures-1780993466741">India's agri-export crisis- Mango, rice, spice, a bigger pattern of compliance failure</a><h2>What will happen to Karim Khan?</h2>The Bureau said that the decision was taken based "on the report of an investigation undertaken by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), the underlying evidence, the advice of an ad hoc Panel of judicial experts, and written submissions." In a statement, the Bureau said that the decision does not indicate the “final outcome”. Khan had already been placed on voluntary leave. The claims were brought in by a woman who was working under Khan at the court’s headquarters in The Hague.&nbsp;A final decision on Khan's fate is now up to the Assembly of States Parties, which will hold a special session to decide whether Khan can retain his job at the global court. To permanently remove Khan, a secret ballot will be held among the 125 member states, out of which a simple majority of 63 countries is required to permanently oust him. If removed, Khan will retain the right to appeal before the International Labour Organisation.

ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has been suspended following an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. Here's who he is, the claims against him, and what happens next.

The International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is facing allegations of sexual misconduct with a female aide. He has been suspended following an extensive disciplinary review, and was announced on Monday night by the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the court's executive oversight body. But the decision and related documentation will remain confidential, the NYT cited anonymous sources to suggest that a majority of the bureau members had found that Mr Khan had committed serious misconduct. Who is Karim Khan? What are the allegations? Karim Khan is a prominent British lawyer and King's Counsel. 56-year old Khan began his career as a domestic prosecutor in the United Kingdom before transitioning into the field of international criminal law. He had spent nearly three decades specialising in international criminal law and human rights. He is best known for seeking arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin, Israeli top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior Hamas leaders. The allegations against Khan stem from one of his female aides in her late-30s, who had accused Khan of engaging in coercive and non-consensual sexual behaviour for an extended period between 2023 and 2024. According to AP, which cites whistleblower documents, Khan spotted the woman in another department and moved her to his office. She was asked to accompany him on private trips, where Khan reportedly “sexually touched her” and engaged in other non-consensual behaviour. Also Read: India's agri-export crisis- Mango, rice, spice, a bigger pattern of compliance failure What will happen to Karim Khan? The Bureau said that the decision was taken based "on the report of an investigation undertaken by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), the underlying evidence, the advice of an ad hoc Panel of judicial experts, and written submissions." In a statement, the Bureau said that the decision does not indicate the “final outcome”. Khan had already been placed on voluntary leave. The claims were brought in by a woman who was working under Khan at the court’s headquarters in The Hague. A final decision on Khan's fate is now up to the Assembly of States Parties, which will hold a special session to decide whether Khan can retain his job at the global court. To permanently remove Khan, a secret ballot will be held among the 125 member states, out of which a simple majority of 63 countries is required to permanently oust him. If removed, Khan will retain the right to appeal before the International Labour Organisation.

ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan has been suspended following an investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. Here's who he is, the claims against him, and what happens next.

Who is Karim Khan? ICC chief prosecutor suspended amid sexual misconduct allegations

Gunshots have been heard at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, and the people inside were told to run for cover, reported Reuters, citing a witness who heard at least five shots initially, with the total rising to more than a dozen. Gunfire was continuing to be heard, according to the witness.&nbsp;Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant.&nbsp;Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the upper chamber of Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEW: Gunfire erupted at the Philippines Senate. Philippine Senator Bato dela Rosa — a top architect of Duterte&#39;s bloody drug war — is trying to evade an ICC arrest warrant. He is under &quot;protective custody&quot; at the Senate. The ICC charges him with crimes against humanity for his… <a href="https://t.co/U3kpn20ply">pic.twitter.com/U3kpn20ply</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/2054534872060805352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the security forces, led by the National Bureau of Investigation, are seeking to serve the warrant, citing Republic Act 9851, which allows the Philippine government to surrender or extradite suspected or accused persons to an international tribunal prosecuting such crimes.'Dela Rosa faces charges of crimes against humanity of murder in connection to the bloody war on drugs, which continued from 2016 to 2018 while he was chief of the National Police.There was chaos in the Philippines parliament when Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, the chief enforcer of the former President Rodrigo Duterte’s “war on drugs” campaign, fled the agents trying to take him under arrest in accordance with the International Criminal Court warrant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A CCTV footage showed Dela Rosa fleeing into the Senate and locking himself inside as the officers chased him. He was seen racing down the hallways and, at one point, stumbling on the staircase during the escape. The police later said that they could not arrest him.&nbsp;Dela Rosa is wanted by The Hague for killing 32 people between 2016 and 2018. Allegedly, thousands of drug dealers were killed without any trial.Former President Duterte has been in the ICC's custody in The Hague since March. He is charged with crimes against humanity and has been accused of being a co-conspirator for murders committed between 2011 and 2019.&nbsp;<h2>Dela Rosa denies the charges</h2>&nbsp;“They want to forcibly bring me to The Hague, to surrender me there,” Dela Rosa said later on a Facebook livestream. On Tuesday, he rejected the ICC’s warrant, arguing that he was leading the war on drugs, and that does not mean he intentionally wanted people killed.&nbsp;The Philippine police stepped up security outside the Senate hours after the standoff ensued.Dela Rosa stated that he would remain within the Senate’s premises. He vowed that he would “do everything” to avoid being taken to the Hague. His lawyers have reportedly asked the Supreme Court to block his arrest. In an appeal to his supporters from inside the building, Dela Rosa said they must “keep vigil in front of the Senate until the Supreme Court decides”.

Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an ICC warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Gunshots have been heard at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, and the people inside were told to run for cover, reported Reuters, citing a witness who heard at least five shots initially, with the total rising to more than a dozen. Gunfire was continuing to be heard, according to the witness. Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the upper chamber of Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Since Monday, the Senate complex has been a refuge for Senator Bato dela Rosa, who is refusing arrest under an ICC warrant. Dela Rosa, who helped a powergrab in the Congress to install now Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, has been placed under the Senate’s protective custody.

Gunshots heard at Philippine Senate, people told to run for cover

The International Criminal Court on Friday rejected a request by former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte to be released from detention ahead of his trial on crimes against humanity during his war on drugs. Presiding judge Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza told a hearing that lawyers for the 80-year-old had not laid out strong enough precautions to warrant a temporary release from custody in The Hague, where the court is based.&nbsp;Duterte's lawyers, appealing against an earlier refusal, had called for a "humanitarian" parole because of the state of his health.&nbsp;The judge said "the conditions for release proposed were not sufficient to mitigate the risks it found in relation to Mr Duterte's interim release".&nbsp;The court also "rejected the defence's argument that Mr Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons".&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-releases-new-npr-100-banknote-with-map-showing-three-indian-territories-as-its-own-india-says-1764317669399">India reacts on Nepal's new banknotes showcasing three Indian territories</a>&nbsp;Duterte, who was president from 2016 to 2022, was detained in Manila on March 11 and taken to the ICC prison at Scheveningen, near The Hague. He appeared very weak, barely speaking, when he made his first court appearance by video.&nbsp;The charges against Duterte have been made over the campaign against drug traffickers and consumers during his presidency that rights groups say left thousands dead.&nbsp;The court is still to give a ruling on whether Duterte is fit to stand trial. A ruling in October rejected claims by his defence that the ICC was not competent to judge Duterte on three charges of crimes against humanity.&nbsp;One charges concerns 19 murders committed between 2013 and 2016, when Duterte was mayor of Davao City. A second relates to 14 killings of alleged drug bosses in 2016 and 2017, when he was president. The third covers 43 killings of suspected low-level drug users or dealers.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

The charges against Duterte have been made over the campaign against drug traffickers and consumers during his presidency that rights groups say left thousands dead.

The International Criminal Court on Friday rejected a request by former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte to be released from detention ahead of his trial on crimes against humanity during his war on drugs. Presiding judge Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza told a hearing that lawyers for the 80-year-old had not laid out strong enough precautions to warrant a temporary release from custody in The Hague, where the court is based. Duterte's lawyers, appealing against an earlier refusal, had called for a "humanitarian" parole because of the state of his health. The judge said "the conditions for release proposed were not sufficient to mitigate the risks it found in relation to Mr Duterte's interim release". The court also "rejected the defence's argument that Mr Duterte should be released for humanitarian reasons". Also Read - India reacts on Nepal's new banknotes showcasing three Indian territories Duterte, who was president from 2016 to 2022, was detained in Manila on March 11 and taken to the ICC prison at Scheveningen, near The Hague. He appeared very weak, barely speaking, when he made his first court appearance by video. The charges against Duterte have been made over the campaign against drug traffickers and consumers during his presidency that rights groups say left thousands dead. The court is still to give a ruling on whether Duterte is fit to stand trial. A ruling in October rejected claims by his defence that the ICC was not competent to judge Duterte on three charges of crimes against humanity. One charges concerns 19 murders committed between 2013 and 2016, when Duterte was mayor of Davao City. A second relates to 14 killings of alleged drug bosses in 2016 and 2017, when he was president. The third covers 43 killings of suspected low-level drug users or dealers. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The charges against Duterte have been made over the campaign against drug traffickers and consumers during his presidency that rights groups say left thousands dead.

ICC rejects Philippines ex-president Duterte's plea for release

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has charged former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte with crimes against humanity. The 80-year-old Duterte is accused of being criminally responsible for the murders that took place as part of his alleged war on drugs, during which thousands of small-time drug dealers, users, and others were killed without trial. The ICC charge sheet includes several redactions and dates from July but was made public only on Monday. The crimes against humanity charges against Duterte allege his involvement in the killings of at least 76 people while he was president and, earlier, a southern mayor, the ICC has revealed.&nbsp;The prosecutors also allege in the 15-page charge sheet that Duterte instructed and authorised “violent acts, including murder, to be committed against alleged criminals, including alleged drug dealers and users.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-slam-globalist-institutions-decaying-world-order-in-un-speech-white-house-1758563791794">Trump to slam ‘globalist institutions, decaying world order’ in UN speech: White House</a>&nbsp;The first charge cites the killings of 19 victims while Duterte was mayor of Davao City between 2013 and around 2016. The second involves 14 who died in targeted killings between 2016 and 2017 when Duterte was president. The third charge cited the killings of 43 people during so-called “clearance operations” between 2016 and 2018.&nbsp;<h2>Duterte was an ‘indirect co-perpetrator’ in the killings: ICC prosecutor</h2>&nbsp;ICC deputy prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang said Duterte was an “indirect co-perpetrator” in the killings, which were carried out by others, including police.Prosecutors said Duterte and his alleged co-perpetrators “shared a common plan or agreement to ‘neutralise’ alleged criminals in the Philippines through violent crimes, including murder”.Duterte never offered any apologies for his brutal anti-drugs crackdown, which saw more than 6,000 people killed, although some activists believe the real figure could run into the tens of thousands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-likely-to-hit-entire-international-criminal-court-with-sanctions-this-week-report-1758569925784">US likely to hit entire International Criminal Court with sanctions this week: Report</a>&nbsp;Duterte, his lawyer, and his family did not immediately react to the detailed charges. Even when he was president, he denied authorising extrajudicial killings, although he openly threatened drug suspects with death and encouraged police to open fire if suspects violently resisted arrest and threatened law enforcers.The Philippine authorities had arrested Duterte in March on a warrant issued by the ICC. He is now being held at an ICC facility in the Netherlands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/murdochs-dell-ellison-to-have-a-role-in-tiktok-after-deal-says-trump-1758476539209">Murdochs, Dell, Ellison to have a role in TikTok after deal, says Trump</a><h2>Duterte first Asian former head of state to be indicted by ICC</h2>&nbsp;Duterte is the first Asian former head of state to be indicted by the ICC and the first suspect to be flown to The Hague in the Netherlands in over three years.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, Duterte’s supporters criticised the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Duterte’s political rival, for arresting and surrendering the former leader to a court whose jurisdiction his supporters dispute.The ICC effectively has no power to arrest people without the cooperation of the countries they are in, which is most often refused, and Marcos had previously dismissed the idea of cooperating with the ICC.A court hearing had been scheduled to begin Tuesday but was postponed to give judges time to evaluate the arguments from Duterte’s attorneys that he is not fit to stand trial.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he cracked down on drug dealers to rid the country of street crimes. In May, he was again elected mayor of Davao, despite being in prison. His son Sebastian has continued as acting mayor in his father’s stead.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has charged former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte with crimes against humanity. The 80-year-old Duterte is accused of being criminally responsible for the murders that took place as part of his alleged war on drugs, during which thousands of small-time drug dealers, users, and others were killed without trial. The ICC charge sheet includes several redactions and dates from July but was made public only on Monday. The crimes against humanity charges against Duterte allege his involvement in the killings of at least 76 people while he was president and, earlier, a southern mayor, the ICC has revealed. The prosecutors also allege in the 15-page charge sheet that Duterte instructed and authorised “violent acts, including murder, to be committed against alleged criminals, including alleged drug dealers and users.” Also Read: Trump to slam ‘globalist institutions, decaying world order’ in UN speech: White House The first charge cites the killings of 19 victims while Duterte was mayor of Davao City between 2013 and around 2016. The second involves 14 who died in targeted killings between 2016 and 2017 when Duterte was president. The third charge cited the killings of 43 people during so-called “clearance operations” between 2016 and 2018. Duterte was an ‘indirect co-perpetrator’ in the killings: ICC prosecutor ICC deputy prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang said Duterte was an “indirect co-perpetrator” in the killings, which were carried out by others, including police. Prosecutors said Duterte and his alleged co-perpetrators “shared a common plan or agreement to ‘neutralise’ alleged criminals in the Philippines through violent crimes, including murder”. Duterte never offered any apologies for his brutal anti-drugs crackdown, which saw more than 6,000 people killed, although some activists believe the real figure could run into the tens of thousands. Also Read: US likely to hit entire International Criminal Court with sanctions this week: Report Duterte, his lawyer, and his family did not immediately react to the detailed charges. Even when he was president, he denied authorising extrajudicial killings, although he openly threatened drug suspects with death and encouraged police to open fire if suspects violently resisted arrest and threatened law enforcers. The Philippine authorities had arrested Duterte in March on a warrant issued by the ICC. He is now being held at an ICC facility in the Netherlands. Also Read: Murdochs, Dell, Ellison to have a role in TikTok after deal, says Trump Duterte first Asian former head of state to be indicted by ICC Duterte is the first Asian former head of state to be indicted by the ICC and the first suspect to be flown to The Hague in the Netherlands in over three years. However, Duterte’s supporters criticised the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Duterte’s political rival, for arresting and surrendering the former leader to a court whose jurisdiction his supporters dispute. The ICC effectively has no power to arrest people without the cooperation of the countries they are in, which is most often refused, and Marcos had previously dismissed the idea of cooperating with the ICC. A court hearing had been scheduled to begin Tuesday but was postponed to give judges time to evaluate the arguments from Duterte’s attorneys that he is not fit to stand trial.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he cracked down on drug dealers to rid the country of street crimes. In May, he was again elected mayor of Davao, despite being in prison. His son Sebastian has continued as acting mayor in his father’s stead.

ICC charges former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte with crimes against humanity

West African Nations, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have decided to exit the International Criminal Court. In a joint statement on Monday. These three neighbouring countries have announced that they are pursuing "indigenous mechanisms for the consolidation of peace and justice". However, according the the Rome Statute, it will take effect only after a year.<h2>ICC is a tool of imperialists for neo-colonial repression</h2>They asserted that ICC is an ‘instrument of neo-colonial repression’ and is used to perpetuate selective justice. According to the Military Junta's ruling in these three West African nations, ICC is incapable of prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.&nbsp;The decision is a direct response to the growing distance between the Western countries, and especially colonial rulers like the United Kingdom, the United States, France, New Zealand and Spain. These countries still have a colonial presence.Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have risen to power through a series of coups between 2020 and 2023. They have a military-led government. These governments have been accused of atrocities and violence. Moreover, they have grown closer to the Russian regime of Putin, who has an arrest warrant against him from the ICC. These three nations have previously withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), citing similar reasons and formed a coalition called the Confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)&nbsp;ICC is an international judicial body that arose from the Rome Statute, and superpowers like the United States, China, and Russia are not its members. The ICC can prosecute its member countries for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Israel also doesn't recognise ICC jurisdiction in its territory.&nbsp;ICC have long been criticised for its Africa Bias, its limited jurisdiction, double standards, particularly its focus on the weaker nation and its ignoring of the powerful countries. It has long been used by Western powers to target the global south.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it a tool of neo-colonial repression. The three West African nations plan to establish indigenous justice mechanisms despite international criticism.

West African Nations, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have decided to exit the International Criminal Court. In a joint statement on Monday. These three neighbouring countries have announced that they are pursuing "indigenous mechanisms for the consolidation of peace and justice". However, according the the Rome Statute, it will take effect only after a year. ICC is a tool of imperialists for neo-colonial repression They asserted that ICC is an ‘instrument of neo-colonial repression’ and is used to perpetuate selective justice. According to the Military Junta's ruling in these three West African nations, ICC is incapable of prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. The decision is a direct response to the growing distance between the Western countries, and especially colonial rulers like the United Kingdom, the United States, France, New Zealand and Spain. These countries still have a colonial presence. Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have risen to power through a series of coups between 2020 and 2023. They have a military-led government. These governments have been accused of atrocities and violence. Moreover, they have grown closer to the Russian regime of Putin, who has an arrest warrant against him from the ICC. These three nations have previously withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), citing similar reasons and formed a coalition called the Confederation called the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) ICC is an international judicial body that arose from the Rome Statute, and superpowers like the United States, China, and Russia are not its members. The ICC can prosecute its member countries for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Israel also doesn't recognise ICC jurisdiction in its territory. ICC have long been criticised for its Africa Bias, its limited jurisdiction, double standards, particularly its focus on the weaker nation and its ignoring of the powerful countries. It has long been used by Western powers to target the global south.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have announced their withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it a tool of neo-colonial repression. The three West African nations plan to establish indigenous justice mechanisms despite international criticism.

'Instrument of neo-colonial repression'-Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger withdraw from International Criminal Court

The United States is considering imposing sanctions against the entire International Criminal Court this week in retaliation for investigations of suspected Israeli war crimes. The sanctions could put the court’s day-to-day operations in jeopardy. Washington has already imposed targeted sanctions on several prosecutors and judges at the court and naming the court itself in the sanctions list would be a major escalation.Israel and the United States are not ICC members. However, the court considers the state of Palestine as a member and has ruled that this gives it jurisdiction over actions on Palestinian territory. Israel and the United States reject this notion. The White House imposed sanctions in February on the court’s lead prosecutor, Karim Khan, who had requested the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/murdochs-dell-ellison-to-have-a-role-in-tiktok-after-deal-says-trump-1758476539209">Murdochs, Dell, Ellison to have a role in TikTok after deal, says Trump</a>&nbsp;As per an exclusive Reuters report, six sources, all speaking on condition of anonymity, said a decision on such “entity sanctions” was expected soon.A source said the court officials had already held emergency meetings to discuss the impact of the probable blanket sanctions.A US State Department spokesperson accused the court of asserting what it said was its “purported jurisdiction” over US and Israeli personnel and said that Washington was going to take further steps.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-afraid-of-our-talent-says-piyush-goyal-after-us-h-1b-visa-fee-hike-urges-indians-to-return-innovate-in-india-1758458036830">‘Afraid of our talent,’ says Piyush Goyal after US H-1B visa fee hike, urges Indians to return, innovate in India</a>&nbsp;“It (the ICC) has the opportunity to change course by making critical and appropriate structural changes. The US will take additional steps to protect our brave service members and others as long as the ICC continues to present a threat to our national interests,” the spokesperson said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-slam-globalist-institutions-decaying-world-order-in-un-speech-white-house-1758563791794">Trump to slam ‘globalist institutions, decaying world order’ in UN speech: White House</a><h2>What is the International Criminal Court?</h2>&nbsp;The ICC was established in 2002 to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression when member states are unwilling or unable to do so themselves. It can prosecute crimes committed by nationals of member states or on the territory of member states by other actors.The court has 125 member states and its budget for 2025 is about 195 million euros ($202 million).&nbsp;The ICC says there are 32 cases before it, with some having more than one suspect. ICC judges have issued at least 60 arrest warrants.

Israel and the United States are not ICC members. However, the court considers the state of Palestine as a member and has ruled that this gives it jurisdiction over actions on Palestinian territory. Israel and the United States reject this notion. 

The United States is considering imposing sanctions against the entire International Criminal Court this week in retaliation for investigations of suspected Israeli war crimes. The sanctions could put the court’s day-to-day operations in jeopardy. Washington has already imposed targeted sanctions on several prosecutors and judges at the court and naming the court itself in the sanctions list would be a major escalation. Israel and the United States are not ICC members. However, the court considers the state of Palestine as a member and has ruled that this gives it jurisdiction over actions on Palestinian territory. Israel and the United States reject this notion. The White House imposed sanctions in February on the court’s lead prosecutor, Karim Khan, who had requested the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant. Also Read: Murdochs, Dell, Ellison to have a role in TikTok after deal, says Trump As per an exclusive Reuters report, six sources, all speaking on condition of anonymity, said a decision on such “entity sanctions” was expected soon. A source said the court officials had already held emergency meetings to discuss the impact of the probable blanket sanctions. A US State Department spokesperson accused the court of asserting what it said was its “purported jurisdiction” over US and Israeli personnel and said that Washington was going to take further steps. Also Read: ‘Afraid of our talent,’ says Piyush Goyal after US H-1B visa fee hike, urges Indians to return, innovate in India “It (the ICC) has the opportunity to change course by making critical and appropriate structural changes. The US will take additional steps to protect our brave service members and others as long as the ICC continues to present a threat to our national interests,” the spokesperson said. Also Read: Trump to slam ‘globalist institutions, decaying world order’ in UN speech: White House What is the International Criminal Court? The ICC was established in 2002 to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression when member states are unwilling or unable to do so themselves. It can prosecute crimes committed by nationals of member states or on the territory of member states by other actors. The court has 125 member states and its budget for 2025 is about 195 million euros ($202 million). The ICC says there are 32 cases before it, with some having more than one suspect. ICC judges have issued at least 60 arrest warrants.

Israel and the United States are not ICC members. However, the court considers the state of Palestine as a member and has ruled that this gives it jurisdiction over actions on Palestinian territory. Israel and the United States reject this notion.&nbsp;

US likely to hit entire International Criminal Court with sanctions this week: Report

Police arrested former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte at Manila's international airport on Tuesday following International Criminal Court directives for an investigation into his aggressive anti-drug campaign.

Philippines arrests former President Rodrigo Duterte on ICC warrant

Philippine: Former President Rodrigo Duterte arrested on ICC warrant

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 6) signed an executive order slapping sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for issuing an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, a close US ally.
Trump also alleged that the tribunal was engaged in "baseless" investigations against America.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
<h2>'Illegitimate actions'</h2>
Trump's order accuses the ICC of engaging in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel." This is a clear reference to probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza.
The American President said that the ICC had "abused its power" by issuing a warrant against Netanyahu, whom Trump met recently.
Trump's order comes a month after the US House passed a bill to sanction the ICC. The bill was blocked by the Senate last month, which said it could backfire against US allies and firms.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-sign-executive-order-sanctioning-icc-for-targeting-us-israel-8697513">Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel</a>
<h2>What sanctions has Trump imposed?</h2>
According to an AFP report, the US president has ordered asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees, and even their family members. Along with this, anyone deemed to have helped the international court's "illegitimate and baseless" investigations faces US sanctions.
These sanctions are a show of support after the Israeli PM's visit to the White House, reports AFP. During this much-anticipated meeting between the two prominent leaders, Trump infamously announced his plan for the US to "take over" Gaza and move Palestinians to other Middle Eastern countries.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
<h2>Why did the ICC issue a warrant against Netanyahu?</h2>
Netanyahu faces an ICC arrest warrant for "crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024," during the Israel-Hamas war. The warrant was issued on November 21, 2024, for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas' military chief Mohammed Deif.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | Trump imposed sanctions on ICC over arrest warrant for Israeli PM Netanyahu and accused it of "illegitimate, baseless actions targeting America and close ally Israel."

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Feb 6) signed an executive order slapping sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for issuing an arrest warrant against Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, a close US ally. Trump also alleged that the tribunal was engaged in "baseless" investigations against America. Also read | Not 'hostile': Trump administration backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark 'Illegitimate actions' Trump's order accuses the ICC of engaging in "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel." This is a clear reference to probes into alleged war crimes by US service members in Afghanistan and Israeli troops in Gaza. The American President said that the ICC had "abused its power" by issuing a warrant against Netanyahu, whom Trump met recently. Trump's order comes a month after the US House passed a bill to sanction the ICC. The bill was blocked by the Senate last month, which said it could backfire against US allies and firms. Also read | Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel What sanctions has Trump imposed? According to an AFP report, the US president has ordered asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees, and even their family members. Along with this, anyone deemed to have helped the international court's "illegitimate and baseless" investigations faces US sanctions. These sanctions are a show of support after the Israeli PM's visit to the White House, reports AFP. During this much-anticipated meeting between the two prominent leaders, Trump infamously announced his plan for the US to "take over" Gaza and move Palestinians to other Middle Eastern countries. Also read | 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting Why did the ICC issue a warrant against Netanyahu? Netanyahu faces an ICC arrest warrant for "crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024," during the Israel-Hamas war. The warrant was issued on November 21, 2024, for Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas' military chief Mohammed Deif. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump</a> will sign an executive order on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the global body of improperly targeting America and Israel, NBC News reported, as it obtained a copy of a fact sheet supporting the order.&nbsp;
The upcoming order will also include both financial sanctions and visa restrictions against unspecified ICC officials and their family members who have assisted in ICC investigations of US citizens or allies.&nbsp;
The ICC triggered a bipartisan backlash in Washington in November last year as it issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and several Hamas leaders.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-criminal-court-prosecutor-seeks-arrest-warrants-for-netanyahu-3-hamas-leaders-723520" rel="dofollow"> International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders</a>
<h2>'Shameful moral equivalency'</h2>
According to the Trump administration's order, it claimed that this created a "shameful moral equivalency."
The ICC stressed that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by restricting humanitarian aid and intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza.&nbsp;
The Israeli officials dismissed the allegations, calling them false and antisemitic.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-us-soldiers-needed-trump-restates-his-take-over-plan-says-israel-would-handover-gaza-after-fighting-8697112" rel="dofollow">'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting</a>
On the first day of his office, Trump signed an executive order reinstating an earlier order that could serve as a legal basis for future sanctions against the ICC and its personnel.&nbsp;
Last month, the US House of Representatives also voted to impose sanctions on the ICC, although the legislation has yet to be okayed in the Senate.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-foreign-aid-freeze-to-ending-birthright-citizenship-series-of-trumps-actions-that-defy-us-laws-8697369">From foreign aid freeze to ending birthright citizenship, series of Trump's actions that defy US laws</a>
Trump, during his first term, said that the ICC has "no jurisdiction, no legitimacy, and no authority" in the US, and neither the US nor Israel are parties to the "so-called Rome Statute", which established the court.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The ICC said that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza. 

US President Donald Trump will sign an executive order on Thursday (Feb 6) sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the global body of improperly targeting America and Israel, NBC News reported, as it obtained a copy of a fact sheet supporting the order. The upcoming order will also include both financial sanctions and visa restrictions against unspecified ICC officials and their family members who have assisted in ICC investigations of US citizens or allies. The ICC triggered a bipartisan backlash in Washington in November last year as it issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and several Hamas leaders. Also read: International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders 'Shameful moral equivalency' According to the Trump administration's order, it claimed that this created a "shameful moral equivalency." The ICC stressed that there was a reason to believe that the Israeli PM and Gallant used "starvation as a method of warfare" by restricting humanitarian aid and intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza. The Israeli officials dismissed the allegations, calling them false and antisemitic. Also read: 'No US soldiers needed': Trump restates his takeover plan, says Israel would hand over Gaza after fighting On the first day of his office, Trump signed an executive order reinstating an earlier order that could serve as a legal basis for future sanctions against the ICC and its personnel. Last month, the US House of Representatives also voted to impose sanctions on the ICC, although the legislation has yet to be okayed in the Senate. Also read: From foreign aid freeze to ending birthright citizenship, series of Trump's actions that defy US laws Trump, during his first term, said that the ICC has "no jurisdiction, no legitimacy, and no authority" in the US, and neither the US nor Israel are parties to the "so-called Rome Statute", which established the court. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump to sign executive order sanctioning ICC for targeting US, Israel

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) recommended judges Wednesday (Nov. 27) to issue an arrest warrant for Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military regime.

Hlaing is accused of committing crimes against Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslim minority since he overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a 2021 coup.

"After an extensive, independent and impartial investigation, my office has concluded that there are reasonable grounds to believe that senior general and acting president Min Aung Hlaing ... bears criminal responsibility for crimes against humanity," the top prosecutor, Karim Khan, said in a statement.

He added that the atrocities against Rohingya community were carried out with the help of armed forces, the Tatmadaw, and national and border police "as well as non-Rohingya citizens".

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjWpZPgvPyJAxWVr1YBHXpVIQgQxfQBKAB6BAgUEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-of-rohingyas-enter-bangladesh-amid-fresh-influx-of-refugees-755745" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-of-rohingyas-enter-bangladesh-amid-fresh-influx-of-refugees-755745&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWpZPgvPyJAxWVr1YBHXpVIQgQxfQBKAB6BAgUEAE">Thousands of Rohingyas enter Bangladesh amid fresh influx of refugees</a>

The probe into the violence against the Rohingya community was launched in 2019 following the&nbsp;massive displacement of over 750,000 people from the restive Rakhine state in 2016 and 2017. Over a million people now call Bangladesh’s Cox's Bazaar their home, who accuse the Myanmar military of mass killings and rapes.

Karim Khan said he would ask for more warrants for people involved in the actions carried out with "genocidal intent".

"In doing so, we will be demonstrating, together with all of our partners, that the Rohingya have not been forgotten. That they, like all people around the world, are entitled to the protection of the law," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjWpZPgvPyJAxWVr1YBHXpVIQgQxfQBKAB6BAgXEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingyas-have-no-fundamental-right-to-reside-and-settle-in-india-government-tells-supreme-court-702216" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingyas-have-no-fundamental-right-to-reside-and-settle-in-india-government-tells-supreme-court-702216&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjWpZPgvPyJAxWVr1YBHXpVIQgQxfQBKAB6BAgXEAE">Rohingyas have no fundamental right to reside and settle in India, India&nbsp;tells Supreme Court</a>

Following the recommendation, a panel of three judges will now see if there are “reasonable grounds” for issuing the arrest warrant. The decision is expected within next three months.

It is to be noted that Myanmar is not a member of the ICC treaty, meaning that the country won’t have any legal obligation to act against Hlaing even if an arrest warrant is issued.

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) recommended judges Wednesday (Nov. 27) to issue an arrest warrant for Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military regime.

The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) recommended judges Wednesday (Nov. 27) to issue an arrest warrant for Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmar’s military regime. Hlaing is accused of committing crimes against Myanmar’s Rohingya Muslim minority since he overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in a 2021 coup. "After an extensive, independent and impartial investigation, my office has concluded that there are reasonable grounds to believe that senior general and acting president Min Aung Hlaing ... bears criminal responsibility for crimes against humanity," the top prosecutor, Karim Khan, said in a statement. He added that the atrocities against Rohingya community were carried out with the help of armed forces, the Tatmadaw, and national and border police "as well as non-Rohingya citizens". Also read: Thousands of Rohingyas enter Bangladesh amid fresh influx of refugees The probe into the violence against the Rohingya community was launched in 2019 following the massive displacement of over 750,000 people from the restive Rakhine state in 2016 and 2017. Over a million people now call Bangladesh’s Cox's Bazaar their home, who accuse the Myanmar military of mass killings and rapes. Karim Khan said he would ask for more warrants for people involved in the actions carried out with "genocidal intent". "In doing so, we will be demonstrating, together with all of our partners, that the Rohingya have not been forgotten. That they, like all people around the world, are entitled to the protection of the law," he added. Also read: Rohingyas have no fundamental right to reside and settle in India, India tells Supreme Court Following the recommendation, a panel of three judges will now see if there are “reasonable grounds” for issuing the arrest warrant. The decision is expected within next three months. It is to be noted that Myanmar is not a member of the ICC treaty, meaning that the country won’t have any legal obligation to act against Hlaing even if an arrest warrant is issued. (With inputs from agencies)

Prosecutor seeks ICC arrest warrant for Myanmar junta leader over Rohingya conflict

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Kyiv seeks to bring Russia to justice over war crimes it is alleged to have committed throughout its invasion.

The ICC prosecutes grave offences like genocide and crimes against humanity and has the power to issue arrest warrants that its 124 members are obliged to execute.

Ukraine signed the Rome Statute that founded the court in 2000 but had not ratified it, as some political and military figures expressed fears Ukrainian soldiers could face prosecution.

Ukraine's foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, called Wednesday's move "historic" after parliament adopted the ratification of the statute.

"This has been a long journey full of challenges, myths, and fears. None of them have been true. And today, we are finally there," he said in a post on X.

The ratification controversially included a reference to Article 124 of the Rome Statute, which would exempt Ukrainian citizens from being prosecuted for war crimes for seven years, ruling party lawmaker Yevgeniya Kravchuk said on Facebook.

"The ratification of the Rome Statute will simultaneously facilitate greater opportunities for punishing Russians and increase the isolation of Russia," she said.

Last year, the court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his children's ombudsman, Maria Lvova-Belova, over the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia and Russian-controlled territory.

Kyiv had long faced pressure from rights groups to ratify the treaty as well as from the European Union, which Ukraine has sought to join.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Kyiv seeks to bring Russia to justice over war crimes it is alleged to have committed throughout its invasion.

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Kyiv seeks to bring Russia to justice over war crimes it is alleged to have committed throughout its invasion. The ICC prosecutes grave offences like genocide and crimes against humanity and has the power to issue arrest warrants that its 124 members are obliged to execute. Ukraine signed the Rome Statute that founded the court in 2000 but had not ratified it, as some political and military figures expressed fears Ukrainian soldiers could face prosecution. Ukraine's foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, called Wednesday's move "historic" after parliament adopted the ratification of the statute. "This has been a long journey full of challenges, myths, and fears. None of them have been true. And today, we are finally there," he said in a post on X. The ratification controversially included a reference to Article 124 of the Rome Statute, which would exempt Ukrainian citizens from being prosecuted for war crimes for seven years, ruling party lawmaker Yevgeniya Kravchuk said on Facebook. "The ratification of the Rome Statute will simultaneously facilitate greater opportunities for punishing Russians and increase the isolation of Russia," she said. Last year, the court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his children's ombudsman, Maria Lvova-Belova, over the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia and Russian-controlled territory. Kyiv had long faced pressure from rights groups to ratify the treaty as well as from the European Union, which Ukraine has sought to join. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine parliament votes in favour of joining International Criminal Court

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court, which prosecutes serious crimes including genocide and crimes against humanity.

"Parliament adopted the ratification of the Rome Statute," opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak said on Telegram, referring to the court's founding treaty.

(More to follow)

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court, which prosecutes serious crimes including genocide and crimes against humanity.

Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to join the International Criminal Court, which prosecutes serious crimes including genocide and crimes against humanity. "Parliament adopted the ratification of the Rome Statute," opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak said on Telegram, referring to the court's founding treaty. (More to follow)

Ukraine parliament votes to join International Criminal Court

The UK's new government will drop its challenge to arrest warrants sought by an international court's prosecutor for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Downing Street confirmed on Friday.

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak's government had told the&nbsp;International Criminal Court&nbsp;(ICC) it intended to submit a challenge to prosecutor Karim Khan's request in May for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his defence minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.&nbsp;

The UK had until Friday (Jul 26) to submit its questions to the court in The Hague, but the recently elected Labour government has confirmed it will not follow through with Sunak's plan.

"This was a proposal by the previous government which was not submitted before the election, and which I can confirm the government will not be pursuing in line with our long-standing position that this is a matter for the court to decide on", a Downing Street spokeswoman said.

"I think you would note that the courts have already received a number of submissions on either side, so they are well seized of the arguments to make their independent determinations," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-arrest-warrant-against-netanyahu-icc-allegations-a-pack-of-lies-says-netanyahu-724247">Watch |&nbsp;ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu: 'ICC allegations a pack of lies,' says Netanyahu</a>

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Labour under former human rights lawyer Keir Starmer swept to power on July 4, defeating the Tories in a landslide general election win.

It has since announced the resumption of funding for the main UN agency for Palestinian refugees that had been paused under Sunak after Israeli claims that UNRWA members took part in the October 7 attacks against Israel.

Labour wants an immediate ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas militants in Gaza and the release of hostages.

Israel's top ally the United States is still set to challenge the court's authority to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-netanyahu-slams-icc-after-chief-prosecutor-seeks-arrest-warrants-for-israeli-pm-defence-minister-723681">Also read |&nbsp;Biden, Netanyahu slam ICC after chief prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Israeli PM, defence minister</a>

As well as Netanyahu and Gallant, Khan is also seeking warrants against top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh and Mohammed Deif, on suspicion of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

If granted by&nbsp;ICC&nbsp;judges, any of the 124&nbsp;ICC&nbsp;member states would technically be obliged to arrest Netanyahu and others if they travelled there.

However, the court has no mechanism to enforce its orders.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The UK's new government will drop its challenge to arrest warrants sought by an international court's prosecutor for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Downing Street confirmed on Friday.

The UK's new government will drop its challenge to arrest warrants sought by an international court's prosecutor for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Downing Street confirmed on Friday. Former prime minister Rishi Sunak's government had told the International Criminal Court (ICC) it intended to submit a challenge to prosecutor Karim Khan's request in May for arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his defence minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The UK had until Friday (Jul 26) to submit its questions to the court in The Hague, but the recently elected Labour government has confirmed it will not follow through with Sunak's plan. "This was a proposal by the previous government which was not submitted before the election, and which I can confirm the government will not be pursuing in line with our long-standing position that this is a matter for the court to decide on", a Downing Street spokeswoman said. "I think you would note that the courts have already received a number of submissions on either side, so they are well seized of the arguments to make their independent determinations," she added. Watch | ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu: 'ICC allegations a pack of lies,' says Netanyahu × Labour under former human rights lawyer Keir Starmer swept to power on July 4, defeating the Tories in a landslide general election win. It has since announced the resumption of funding for the main UN agency for Palestinian refugees that had been paused under Sunak after Israeli claims that UNRWA members took part in the October 7 attacks against Israel. Labour wants an immediate ceasefire in Israel's war with Hamas militants in Gaza and the release of hostages. Israel's top ally the United States is still set to challenge the court's authority to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu. Also read | Biden, Netanyahu slam ICC after chief prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Israeli PM, defence minister As well as Netanyahu and Gallant, Khan is also seeking warrants against top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh and Mohammed Deif, on suspicion of war crimes and crimes against humanity. If granted by ICC judges, any of the 124 ICC member states would technically be obliged to arrest Netanyahu and others if they travelled there. However, the court has no mechanism to enforce its orders. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Change in policy towards Israel? UK drops its plan to challenge Netanyahu's arrest warrant

The International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor is urgently investigating allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Darfur city of al-Fashir which has become a new front between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Sudan civil war: ICC investigates potential atrocities committed in Darfur after violence

The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan,&nbsp;on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The ICC chief prosecutor has also sought arrest warrants for Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leaders Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri (Deif) and Ismail Haniyeh.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the accusations against them?</h2>

The ICC prosecutor’s office said it suspected all five – Israeli PM, defence minister and Hamas leaders – bore criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Israel or the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

In a statement, Khan’s office said Hamas leader Sinwar, leader of the Al Qassem Brigades (Hamas’ armed wing) Deif, and Hamas political leader Haniyeh have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed on Israel and Gaza Strip from “at least” October 7.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebrahim-raisi-death-it-wasnt-us-says-israel-on-iran-presidents-chopper-crash-723469">Ebrahim Raisi death: It wasn't us, says Israel on Iran president's chopper crash</a>

The Hamas leaders have been accused of extermination as a crime against humanity, murder, and taking hostages as a war crime, according to the statement by Khan’s office.&nbsp;

Additionally, in the context of captivity, the Hamas leaders have also been accused of rape and other acts of sexual violence, torture, other inhumane acts as a crime against humanity, cruel treatment, and outrage upon personal dignity as a war crime.&nbsp;

“The world was shocked on the 7th of October when people were ripped from their bedrooms, from their homes, from the different kibbutzim in Israel,” Khan told CNN in an interview, adding that “people have suffered enormously.”

According to the statement by Khan’s office, Netanyahu and Gallant have been accused of using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare; wilfully causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or health; wilful killing or murder; intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population; extermination and/or murder; and persecution and other inhumane acts as crimes against humanity.&nbsp;

Last month, Netanyahu had said any ICC arrest warrants against senior Israeli government and military officials “would be an outrage of historic proportions.”

When asked about the Israeli PM’s comments, the ICC chief prosecutor told CNN, “Nobody is above the law.”

He added that if Israel disagrees with the ICC, “they are free, notwithstanding their objections to jurisdiction, to raise a challenge before the judges of the court and that’s what I advise them to do.”&nbsp;

<h2>What next?</h2>

A panel of ICC judges will now consider Khan’s application for the arrest warrants. It will now be up to the court’s pre-trial judges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to issue warrants.

Notably, the ICC prosecutor in 2021 opened a probe into possible war crimes committed by Israel as well as Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups in the Palestinian territories.&nbsp;

Legal experts have told AFP that Hamas and Israel could face war crimes charges over the conflict.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-taiwans-new-president-lai-ching-te-a-severe-danger-for-china-723504">Meet Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te, a 'severe danger' for China</a>

While Israel is not a member of the ICC, the Hague-based court claims to have jurisdiction over Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution.

The application for the arrest warrants filed on Monday is also separate from the case that is being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over an accusation from South Africa that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Outrage over application</h2>

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called the ICC chief prosecutor’s decision “a historic disgrace that will be remembered forever.”&nbsp;

Katz also vowed to form a special committee to fight back against any such action and also work with world leaders to ensure no such warrants are enforced on Israeli leaders. &nbsp;

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri, as per Reuters said that the decision “equates the victim with the executioner” and encourages Israel to continue its “war of extermination” in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan, on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza.

The International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan, on Monday (May 20) sought arrest warrants for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the October 7 attacks on Israel and the ongoing war in Gaza. The ICC chief prosecutor has also sought arrest warrants for Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leaders Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri (Deif) and Ismail Haniyeh. What are the accusations against them? The ICC prosecutor’s office said it suspected all five – Israeli PM, defence minister and Hamas leaders – bore criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Israel or the Gaza Strip. In a statement, Khan’s office said Hamas leader Sinwar, leader of the Al Qassem Brigades (Hamas’ armed wing) Deif, and Hamas political leader Haniyeh have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed on Israel and Gaza Strip from “at least” October 7. Also Read | Ebrahim Raisi death: It wasn't us, says Israel on Iran president's chopper crash The Hamas leaders have been accused of extermination as a crime against humanity, murder, and taking hostages as a war crime, according to the statement by Khan’s office. Additionally, in the context of captivity, the Hamas leaders have also been accused of rape and other acts of sexual violence, torture, other inhumane acts as a crime against humanity, cruel treatment, and outrage upon personal dignity as a war crime. “The world was shocked on the 7th of October when people were ripped from their bedrooms, from their homes, from the different kibbutzim in Israel,” Khan told CNN in an interview, adding that “people have suffered enormously.” According to the statement by Khan’s office, Netanyahu and Gallant have been accused of using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare; wilfully causing great suffering, or serious injury to body or health; wilful killing or murder; intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population; extermination and/or murder; and persecution and other inhumane acts as crimes against humanity. Last month, Netanyahu had said any ICC arrest warrants against senior Israeli government and military officials “would be an outrage of historic proportions.” When asked about the Israeli PM’s comments, the ICC chief prosecutor told CNN, “Nobody is above the law.” He added that if Israel disagrees with the ICC, “they are free, notwithstanding their objections to jurisdiction, to raise a challenge before the judges of the court and that’s what I advise them to do.” What next? A panel of ICC judges will now consider Khan’s application for the arrest warrants. It will now be up to the court’s pre-trial judges to determine if there is sufficient evidence to issue warrants. Notably, the ICC prosecutor in 2021 opened a probe into possible war crimes committed by Israel as well as Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups in the Palestinian territories. Legal experts have told AFP that Hamas and Israel could face war crimes charges over the conflict. Also Read | Meet Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te, a 'severe danger' for China While Israel is not a member of the ICC, the Hague-based court claims to have jurisdiction over Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank. However, even if the arrest warrants are issued, Netanyahu and Gallant do not face any immediate risk of prosecution. The application for the arrest warrants filed on Monday is also separate from the case that is being heard by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over an accusation from South Africa that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza. Outrage over application Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz called the ICC chief prosecutor’s decision “a historic disgrace that will be remembered forever.” Katz also vowed to form a special committee to fight back against any such action and also work with world leaders to ensure no such warrants are enforced on Israeli leaders. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri, as per Reuters said that the decision “equates the victim with the executioner” and encourages Israel to continue its “war of extermination” in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

International Criminal Court prosecutor seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, 3 Hamas leaders

The Israeli government is making efforts to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other top officials, the Times of Israel reported on Sunday (Apr 28) citing sources.

The Israeli government is making efforts to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other top officials, the Times of Israel reported on Sunday (Apr 28) citing sources. Israeli officials believe that the ICC has been preparing to issue these arrest warrants for officials on charges related to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Also read | Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people, hours before ceasefire talks The report said that the country's National Security Council is leading the campaign (to head off the arrest warrants), adding the foreign ministry is also involved in the efforts. One of the sources told the publication that a major focus of the ICC allegations would be that Israel deliberately starved Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. 'Netanyahu under unusual stress' According to Israeli journalist and analyst Ben Caspit, Prime Minister Netanyahu has been under unusual stress over the feared arrest warrant against him and other top officials. Writing an article in the Walla News, Caspit said that Netanyahu was leading a non-stop push over the telephone to prevent an arrest warrant, focussed especially on the Joe Biden-led US administration. Last Friday, the Israeli Prime Minister said in a post on Telegram that under his leadership, Israel would never accept any attempt by the ICC to undermine its basic right to defend itself. Also watch | Future of war: Will private military contractors take over? | WION Decodes × Amid these developments, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that his country expects the ICC to refrain from issuing arrest warrants. "If the orders are issued, they will harm the commanders and soldiers of the IDF and give a boost to the terrorist organisation Hamas and the radical Islamic axis led by Iran against which we are fighting," Katz said in a statement. No end to conflict anytime soon On October 7 last year, Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people, mostly civilians. More than 200 people were taken as hostages by Hamas. Israel retaliated hard in the Gaza Strip and has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians. More than 77,000 people have been injured in the war-torn region. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Israel making efforts to block ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu and others, says report

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

Kobylash, an army lieutenant general and Sokolov, a navy admiral, were named as the ICC issued a second round of arrest warrants against Russian officials related to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine claims sinking yet another Russian warship in the Black Sea

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<h2>Allegations against Russian commanders</h2>

The Hague-based ICC, in a statement, said that they have reasonable grounds to believe that the two were responsible for “missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023”.&nbsp;

It added, “During this timeframe, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.”

The court also noted that these attacks caused civilian harm and damage which was clearly excessive.&nbsp;

However, since Russia does not recognise the ICC it is highly likely that the Russian commanders will ever be deported to face the charges.&nbsp;

In 2022, the ICC also issued an arrest for President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-sunk-russian-warship-near-crimea-using-sea-drones-696813">Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones</a>

The two Russian commanders, according to ICC, “are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects,” “war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects,” and “crime against humanity of inhumane acts”. &nbsp;

At the time of the alleged crimes, Kobylash, 58, was the commander of the so-called long-range aviation of the Russian air force and Sokolov, 61, was an admiral in the Russian navy who commanded the Black Sea Fleet, according to the ICC.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine, rights group&nbsp;welcome arrest warrants</h2>

“Every Russian commander who orders strikes against Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure must know that justice will be served,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a post on X welcoming the arrest warrants.&nbsp;

He added, “Every perpetrator of such crimes must know that they will be held accountable.”

The exact details, specific incidents, and possible victims have been kept a secret amid the ongoing investigation, said the ICC.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-asks-nationals-to-relocate-to-safe-areas-in-israel-after-kerala-based-man-dies-in-missile-attack-696839">&nbsp;India asks nationals to relocate to safe areas in Israel after Kerala-based man dies in missile attack</a>

“By issuing arrest warrants for Kobylash and Sokolov, the ICC has demonstrated that it will pursue cases to the top of the chain of command,” said Erica Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s senior director for research, advocacy, and policy, in a statement.&nbsp;

She also called on member states to ensure that the Russian commanders are arrested if they choose to leave Russia.&nbsp;

“In addition to ICC fugitives, President Putin and Ms Lvova-Belova, the international community must ensure that Mr Kobylash or Mr Sokolov are immediately arrested and surrendered to the ICC if they leave Russia,” Rosas added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for top Russian commanders Sergei Kobylash and Viktor Sokolov, on Tuesday (Mar 5) over alleged war crimes that they committed in Ukraine amid the ongoing war. Kobylash, an army lieutenant general and Sokolov, a navy admiral, were named as the ICC issued a second round of arrest warrants against Russian officials related to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. WATCH | Ukraine claims sinking yet another Russian warship in the Black Sea Allegations against Russian commanders The Hague-based ICC, in a statement, said that they have reasonable grounds to believe that the two were responsible for “missile strikes carried out by the forces under their command against the Ukrainian electric infrastructure from at least 10 October 2022 until at least 9 March 2023”. It added, “During this timeframe, there was an alleged campaign of strikes against numerous electric power plants and sub-stations, which were carried out by the Russian armed forces in multiple locations in Ukraine.” The court also noted that these attacks caused civilian harm and damage which was clearly excessive. However, since Russia does not recognise the ICC it is highly likely that the Russian commanders will ever be deported to face the charges. In 2022, the ICC also issued an arrest for President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s presidential commissioner for children’s rights. Also Read | Ukraine claims to have sunk Russian warship near Crimea using sea drones The two Russian commanders, according to ICC, “are each allegedly responsible for the war crime of directing attacks at civilian objects,” “war crime of causing excessive incidental harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects,” and “crime against humanity of inhumane acts”. At the time of the alleged crimes, Kobylash, 58, was the commander of the so-called long-range aviation of the Russian air force and Sokolov, 61, was an admiral in the Russian navy who commanded the Black Sea Fleet, according to the ICC. Ukraine, rights group welcome arrest warrants “Every Russian commander who orders strikes against Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure must know that justice will be served,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a post on X welcoming the arrest warrants. He added, “Every perpetrator of such crimes must know that they will be held accountable.” The exact details, specific incidents, and possible victims have been kept a secret amid the ongoing investigation, said the ICC. Also Read | India asks nationals to relocate to safe areas in Israel after Kerala-based man dies in missile attack “By issuing arrest warrants for Kobylash and Sokolov, the ICC has demonstrated that it will pursue cases to the top of the chain of command,” said Erica Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s senior director for research, advocacy, and policy, in a statement. She also called on member states to ensure that the Russian commanders are arrested if they choose to leave Russia. “In addition to ICC fugitives, President Putin and Ms Lvova-Belova, the international community must ensure that Mr Kobylash or Mr Sokolov are immediately arrested and surrendered to the ICC if they leave Russia,” Rosas added. (With inputs from agencies)

ICC issues arrest warrants for top Russian commanders over suspected war crimes in Ukraine

Four Armenian soldiers were killed and another wounded by Azerbaijani fire along the two countries' heavily militarized border on the 13th of February. Baku claimed that the attack on the Armenian position was in retaliation to an Armenian provocation a day earlier in which one Azerbaijani soldier was wounded. Tuesday's flare-up in violence was the first since the Caucasus' arch-foes began negotiating a deal last year to end more than three decades of intermittent war. A couple of days after the border skirmish, Armenian Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, warned that Azerbaijan is planning a full-scale war against Armenia. Both nations have professed an interest in signing a peace treaty but continue to disagree over issues including precise demarcation of their border and control over several small territorial enclaves. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Is Azerbaijan planning a full-scale war against Armenia?

Taiwan's government is reportedly&nbsp;exploring the possibility of joining the International Criminal Court (ICC) as part of its strategy to improve deterrence against a potential Chinese attack or invasion.

Taiwan's ICC membership initially recommended in an independent annual review of the nation's human rights efforts, is now under discussion among members of Taiwan's judiciary, government, and legal profession.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-extended-conscription-and-loss-of-face-for-xi-jinping-547113">Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping</a>

According to The Guardian, the proponents argue that this move would not only help bolster the international legal system's presence in Asia but also increase Taiwan's global participation, countering Beijing's efforts to isolate the self-ruled island nation.&nbsp;

<h2>How the ICC is established?</h2>

The ICC, established by the Rome Statute in 2002, focuses on four core international crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression.

<h2>Meaning of Taiwan's potential&nbsp;inclusion into ICC&nbsp;</h2>

Supporters of Taiwan's ICC membership assert that it could pave the way for investigations and warrants against Chinese leader Xi Jinping under international law if he were to order or oversee acts of war or war crimes against Taiwan.

Also watch |&nbsp;China President Xi Jinping says, 'Will prevent anyone from splitting Taiwan from China' | WION

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This, they believe, could serve as a deterrent to prevent Xi from pursuing the annexation of Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that vehemently rejects Chinese subjugation.

<h2>Taiwan's potential ICC inclusion amid Xi Jinping's renewed 'reunification' threat</h2>

Chinese leader Xi Jinping's recent New Year's address called for an inevitable "reunification" with Taiwan, which further heightened the tensions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-surely-be-reunified-says-president-xi-jinping-in-new-years-speech-675342">Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech</a>

There are two potential mechanisms for Taiwan to seek ICC membership: signing up to the Rome Statute or the president unilaterally declaring acceptance of ICC jurisdiction over Taiwan's territory. However, Taiwan's status as a non-UN member state, recognised by only 13 countries, adds complexity to its pursuit of ICC membership.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's government is reportedly exploring the possibility of joining the International Criminal Court (ICC) as part of its strategy to improve deterrence against a potential Chinese attack or invasion.

Taiwan's government is reportedly exploring the possibility of joining the International Criminal Court (ICC) as part of its strategy to improve deterrence against a potential Chinese attack or invasion. Taiwan's ICC membership initially recommended in an independent annual review of the nation's human rights efforts, is now under discussion among members of Taiwan's judiciary, government, and legal profession. Also read | Taiwan's extended conscription and 'loss of face' for Xi Jinping According to The Guardian, the proponents argue that this move would not only help bolster the international legal system's presence in Asia but also increase Taiwan's global participation, countering Beijing's efforts to isolate the self-ruled island nation. How the ICC is established? The ICC, established by the Rome Statute in 2002, focuses on four core international crimes: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression. Meaning of Taiwan's potential inclusion into ICC Supporters of Taiwan's ICC membership assert that it could pave the way for investigations and warrants against Chinese leader Xi Jinping under international law if he were to order or oversee acts of war or war crimes against Taiwan. Also watch | China President Xi Jinping says, 'Will prevent anyone from splitting Taiwan from China' | WION × This, they believe, could serve as a deterrent to prevent Xi from pursuing the annexation of Taiwan, a self-ruled democracy that vehemently rejects Chinese subjugation. Taiwan's potential ICC inclusion amid Xi Jinping's renewed 'reunification' threat Chinese leader Xi Jinping's recent New Year's address called for an inevitable "reunification" with Taiwan, which further heightened the tensions. Also read | Xi Jinping makes most direct threat so far to annex Taiwan in New Year's speech There are two potential mechanisms for Taiwan to seek ICC membership: signing up to the Rome Statute or the president unilaterally declaring acceptance of ICC jurisdiction over Taiwan's territory. However, Taiwan's status as a non-UN member state, recognised by only 13 countries, adds complexity to its pursuit of ICC membership. (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan begins preparing ground for joining ICC to deter China attack, initiate potential action against Xi

Armenian Parliament has voted to join the International Criminal Court a move which further strains ties with its old ally Russia. The decision will oblige the former Soviet Republic to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Armenia votes to join International Criminal Court

The Armenian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 3) voted to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that would strain the relations with its old ally Russia further. The Armenian lawmakers basically voted to ratify the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the ICC.&nbsp;

Notably, ICC has issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin over the Russia-Ukraine war and ICC members are expected to make the arrest if the Russian leader sets foot on their territory.

A broadcast of the parliament session showed 60 deputies voting in favour of the proposal with 22 mainly opposition lawmakers voting against joining the ICC.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-says-over-100000-have-fled-nagorno-karabakh-fuel-depot-blast-death-toll-rises-to-170-64">Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Nagorno-Karabakh; fuel depot blast death toll rises to 170</a>&nbsp;

Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan announced: "Sixty MPs voted for ratification and twenty others were against. The decision has been adopted."&nbsp;

The opposition and factions such as "Armenia" and "I Have The Honour" reportedly said that the document would not favour Armenia and has other geopolitical interests.&nbsp;

The opposition parties in Armenia had earlier slammed the move, calling out the government for endangering the country's ties with Russia. The opposition claimed that the decision would lead to serious consequences for Yerevan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-reports-casualties-after-accusing-azerbaijani-forces-of-opening-fire-in-border-region-641869">Armenia says one killed, two injured after Azerbaijani forces open fire in border region</a>&nbsp;

Amid escalating tensions, the Kremlin said on Tuesday that Armenia had no alternative to the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO).&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "I think that most people in Armenia realise that the CSTO instruments are absolutely irreplaceable. The Armenian side has nothing better than these mechanisms, we are sure of that."&nbsp;

Peskov told reporters: "We are doubtful that from the point of view of bilateral relations, Armenia's accession to the Rome Statute is correct. We still believe that it is the wrong decision."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russia looks away as Azerbaijan takes over Nagorno-Karabakh&nbsp;

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A Russian Foreign Ministry official told Russian news agency TASS that Armenia's move to ratify the Rome Statute would have extremely negative implications for bilateral relations.&nbsp;

The vote illustrated a growing chasm between Moscow and Yerevan, which has grown angry with the Kremlin over its perceived inaction over Armenia's long-standing confrontation with Azerbaijan.&nbsp;

Azerbaijani forces last month swept through the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh -- where Russian peacekeepers are deployed -- and secured the surrender of Armenian separatist forces that had controlled the mountainous region for decades.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Armenian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 3) voted to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that would strain the relations with its old ally Russia further.

The Armenian parliament on Tuesday (Oct 3) voted to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that would strain the relations with its old ally Russia further. The Armenian lawmakers basically voted to ratify the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the ICC. Notably, ICC has issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin over the Russia-Ukraine war and ICC members are expected to make the arrest if the Russian leader sets foot on their territory. A broadcast of the parliament session showed 60 deputies voting in favour of the proposal with 22 mainly opposition lawmakers voting against joining the ICC. Also read: Armenia says over 100,000 have fled Nagorno-Karabakh; fuel depot blast death toll rises to 170 Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan announced: "Sixty MPs voted for ratification and twenty others were against. The decision has been adopted." The opposition and factions such as "Armenia" and "I Have The Honour" reportedly said that the document would not favour Armenia and has other geopolitical interests. The opposition parties in Armenia had earlier slammed the move, calling out the government for endangering the country's ties with Russia. The opposition claimed that the decision would lead to serious consequences for Yerevan. Also read: Armenia says one killed, two injured after Azerbaijani forces open fire in border region Amid escalating tensions, the Kremlin said on Tuesday that Armenia had no alternative to the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO). Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "I think that most people in Armenia realise that the CSTO instruments are absolutely irreplaceable. The Armenian side has nothing better than these mechanisms, we are sure of that." Peskov told reporters: "We are doubtful that from the point of view of bilateral relations, Armenia's accession to the Rome Statute is correct. We still believe that it is the wrong decision." Watch: Russia looks away as Azerbaijan takes over Nagorno-Karabakh × A Russian Foreign Ministry official told Russian news agency TASS that Armenia's move to ratify the Rome Statute would have extremely negative implications for bilateral relations. The vote illustrated a growing chasm between Moscow and Yerevan, which has grown angry with the Kremlin over its perceived inaction over Armenia's long-standing confrontation with Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani forces last month swept through the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh -- where Russian peacekeepers are deployed -- and secured the surrender of Armenian separatist forces that had controlled the mountainous region for decades. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Armenia votes to join International Criminal Court, further strains ties with old ally Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin “intends” to visit China in October to attend the Belt and Road Forum, Kremlin confirmed on Tuesday (July 25).

"It is known that we have received an invitation and that we intend to go to China when the Belt and Road Forum is held in October," Yuri Ushakov, an aide to the president on international affairs, said, according to Tass news agency.

Notably, this is the first time that Putin will visit abroad since the&nbsp;international criminal court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for the Russian&nbsp;president over war crimes against Ukraine. He was scheduled to visit South Africa for the BRICS summit in August but decided to cancel the plan. Johannesburg is one of the signatories of the Rome Statue and is obligated to arrest Putin if he lands in the country.&nbsp;

In March, Putin was invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Beijing in a symbolic show of support after the ICC issued the arrest warrant.

The last time Putin visited Beijing was back in 2022 to attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics, just days before launching the invasion of Ukraine. He also attended the first two Belt and Road Forums held in China in 2017 and 2019.

Since last year, China and Russia&nbsp;have grown even closer amidst increasing hostility with the West.

When Putin was in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping declared a "no limits" partnership, further cementing ties in economic, trade, political and military areas.

Furthermore, China has so far not condemned Russia for the war and instead criticised Western nations for sanctions on Moscow.

As the West announced an embargo on Russian oil, Beijing became the biggest buyer, apart from India, and secured oil and gas at discounted prices.

Russia has also increasingly been using yuan as a reserve currency, in preference to the US dollar.

<h2>Putin hosts Lukashenko, calls Ukraine counter-offensive a failure</h2>

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<h2>China, Russia delegations visit North Korea</h2>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the North Korean state media agency KCNA has reported that a delegation from Russia and China will be visiting the capital Pyongyang this week to witness the celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-removes-qin-gang-appoints-wang-yi-as-new-foreign-minister-in-surprise-shake-up-619269">China sacks 'missing' Qin Gang as foreign minister, reinstates Wang Yi</a>

The Russian delegation is led by Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, while from China, Chinese Communist Party Politburo member Li Hongzhong is attending the event.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-first-time-in-20-years-singapore-to-hang-woman-convicted-of-drug-trafficking-619261">For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trade</a>

North Korea celebrates Victory Day on July 27, the anniversary of the armistice in 1953, which brought an end to the fighting with South Korea.

This year’s celebration includes a major military parade in North Korea’s capital, KCNA reported.

Moscow and Beijing will be the first public visitors to the country for the Victory Day celebrations since Pyongyang closed its borders at the start of the pandemic in 2020.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russian President Vladimir Putin “intends” to visit China in October to attend the Belt and Road Forum, Kremlin confirmed on Tuesday (July 25). "It is known that we have received an invitation and that we intend to go to China when the Belt and Road Forum is held in October," Yuri Ushakov, an aide to the president on international affairs, said, according to Tass news agency.

Russian President Vladimir Putin “intends” to visit China in October to attend the Belt and Road Forum, Kremlin confirmed on Tuesday (July 25). "It is known that we have received an invitation and that we intend to go to China when the Belt and Road Forum is held in October," Yuri Ushakov, an aide to the president on international affairs, said, according to Tass news agency. Notably, this is the first time that Putin will visit abroad since the international criminal court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for the Russian president over war crimes against Ukraine. He was scheduled to visit South Africa for the BRICS summit in August but decided to cancel the plan. Johannesburg is one of the signatories of the Rome Statue and is obligated to arrest Putin if he lands in the country. In March, Putin was invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Beijing in a symbolic show of support after the ICC issued the arrest warrant. The last time Putin visited Beijing was back in 2022 to attend the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics, just days before launching the invasion of Ukraine. He also attended the first two Belt and Road Forums held in China in 2017 and 2019. Since last year, China and Russia have grown even closer amidst increasing hostility with the West. When Putin was in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping declared a "no limits" partnership, further cementing ties in economic, trade, political and military areas. Furthermore, China has so far not condemned Russia for the war and instead criticised Western nations for sanctions on Moscow. As the West announced an embargo on Russian oil, Beijing became the biggest buyer, apart from India, and secured oil and gas at discounted prices. Russia has also increasingly been using yuan as a reserve currency, in preference to the US dollar. Putin hosts Lukashenko, calls Ukraine counter-offensive a failure China, Russia delegations visit North Korea Meanwhile, the North Korean state media agency KCNA has reported that a delegation from Russia and China will be visiting the capital Pyongyang this week to witness the celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. Also read | China sacks 'missing' Qin Gang as foreign minister, reinstates Wang Yi The Russian delegation is led by Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, while from China, Chinese Communist Party Politburo member Li Hongzhong is attending the event. Also read | For first time in 20 years, Singapore to hang woman convicted of drug trade North Korea celebrates Victory Day on July 27, the anniversary of the armistice in 1953, which brought an end to the fighting with South Korea. This year’s celebration includes a major military parade in North Korea’s capital, KCNA reported. Moscow and Beijing will be the first public visitors to the country for the Victory Day celebrations since Pyongyang closed its borders at the start of the pandemic in 2020. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia’s Vladimir Putin will visit China in October, says Kremlin; first trip abroad since ICC arrest warrant

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has dismissed media reports claiming that South Africa was considering to shift the BRICS summit venue to another country amid an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

Lavrov said he does not read British newspapers - seemingly the origin of the story claiming the relocation of the BRICS summit.&nbsp;

"As far as I understand, such news could have been published only in some yellow British newspaper, and I don’t read British newspapers," said Lavrov during a&nbsp;press conference on the outcome of the meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian Deputy&nbsp;Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said such reports should not be trusted and that they were part of a deliberate misinformation campaign.&nbsp;

<h2>Unnamed sources for the claims</h2>

Notably, a Bloomberg report titled 'Putin arrest warrant prompts South Africa to weigh moving BRICS summit', citing unnamed sources made the claim.&nbsp;

"The government is considering asking China to host the meeting of heads of state, or alternatively neighbouring Mozambique, the people said, asking not to be identified because discussions about the matter are private and no decision has been taken yet," read the report.&nbsp;

Putin is wanted by the ICC for war crimes in relation to the Ukrainian invasion. With the BRICS summit taking place in South Africa and the country being a member of ICC, the Western world is pressuring Pretoria to arrest Putin once he lands in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-wont-arrest-vladimir-putin-to-provide-diplomatic-immunity-during-brics-event-598357">Also read |&nbsp;South Africa won’t arrest Vladimir Putin, to provide diplomatic immunity during BRICS event</a>

<h2>'South Africa will not arrest Putin'</h2>

However, the African nation has granted immunity to all participants, including Putin, and other Russian officials, at BRICS-related events to be held in the country. These United Nations Convention grants immunity from personal arrest or detention.

“This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa irrespective of the level of participation,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperations said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>International Court warrant against Putin; South Africa due to host BRICS summit</h2>

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Meanwhile, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has confirmed that Russia will participate in the BRICS summit at an “appropriate level”.&nbsp;

"Russia will take part in this summit at a proper level," he said, while responding to a question about whether Putin will participate in the summit in South Africa, the state-run Tass news agency reported.

"Russia attributes great importance to the development of this integration format," the Kremlin spokesman added.&nbsp;

The meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers is taking place in Cape Town on June 1-2, and the association’s summit is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, between August 22 and 24.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has dismissed media reports claiming that South Africa was considering to shift the BRICS summit venue to another country amid an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has dismissed media reports claiming that South Africa was considering to shift the BRICS summit venue to another country amid an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Lavrov said he does not read British newspapers - seemingly the origin of the story claiming the relocation of the BRICS summit. "As far as I understand, such news could have been published only in some yellow British newspaper, and I don’t read British newspapers," said Lavrov during a press conference on the outcome of the meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers. Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said such reports should not be trusted and that they were part of a deliberate misinformation campaign. Unnamed sources for the claims Notably, a Bloomberg report titled 'Putin arrest warrant prompts South Africa to weigh moving BRICS summit', citing unnamed sources made the claim. "The government is considering asking China to host the meeting of heads of state, or alternatively neighbouring Mozambique, the people said, asking not to be identified because discussions about the matter are private and no decision has been taken yet," read the report. Putin is wanted by the ICC for war crimes in relation to the Ukrainian invasion. With the BRICS summit taking place in South Africa and the country being a member of ICC, the Western world is pressuring Pretoria to arrest Putin once he lands in the country. Also read | South Africa won’t arrest Vladimir Putin, to provide diplomatic immunity during BRICS event 'South Africa will not arrest Putin' However, the African nation has granted immunity to all participants, including Putin, and other Russian officials, at BRICS-related events to be held in the country. These United Nations Convention grants immunity from personal arrest or detention. “This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa irrespective of the level of participation,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperations said in a statement. International Court warrant against Putin; South Africa due to host BRICS summit Meanwhile, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov has confirmed that Russia will participate in the BRICS summit at an “appropriate level”. "Russia will take part in this summit at a proper level," he said, while responding to a question about whether Putin will participate in the summit in South Africa, the state-run Tass news agency reported. "Russia attributes great importance to the development of this integration format," the Kremlin spokesman added. The meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers is taking place in Cape Town on June 1-2, and the association’s summit is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, between August 22 and 24. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Don’t read British newspapers...': Lavrov dismisses reports about BRICS summit being moved

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based. While referring to Putin, Zelensky said, “We all want to see a different Vladimir here in the Hague, the one who deserves to be sanctioned for his criminal actions here, in the capital of international law."

Watch:&nbsp;War at Ukraine: Russia opens probe into Kremlin attack | Russia-Ukraine War

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“I'm sure we will see that happen when we win," he said, adding,&nbsp;"Whoever brings war must receive judgement."&nbsp;The ICC in March had issued an arrest warrant for Putin for allegedly deporting children from war-ravaged regions of Ukraine. On the flip side, Russia has rejected ICC’s allegations and jurisdiction over its conflict with Ukraine, which it prefers to call a “special military operation.”

<h2>Ukraine not seeking NATO membership during war</h2>

Zelensky on Thursday clarified that his country will not join NATO during the war with Russia. "We are realistic, we know we will not be in NATO during the war," he said after meeting&nbsp;Dutch and Belgian Prime Ministers Mark Rutte and Alexander De Croo. He further added, "But we want a very clear message that we will be in NATO after the war."

<h2>Key points from Zelensky’s speech at The Hague</h2>

<ol>
	<li>Zelensky again called for setting up a war tribunal to hold Russia accountable for its “war crimes” in Ukraine.</li>
	<li>Zelensky claimed that Russia committed 6,000 war crimes in April alone, which led to the death of at least 207 Ukrainian civilians, including children.</li>
	<li>He also thanked the Dutch leadership for its unwavering support of Ukraine and for supplying it with weapons. He reiterated that a war is won by “force of arms.”</li>
	<li>He referred to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as “the war we didn't want, the one we have to make the last - and we will do it"</li>
</ol>

<h2>The speech comes in the backdrop of ‘Ukraine drone strike’ controversy</h2>

Zelensky delivered his speech in The Hague a day after Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to strike the Kremlin with its kamikaze drone. The Kremlin said it perceives the attack as an attempt on Putin’s life.

Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday called for the “physical elimination” of Zelensky. The leader said, “After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal."

<h2>Russia accuses the US of masterminding the attack</h2>

The Kremlin on Thursday blamed the US for orchestrating the drone attack. The Kremlin said in a statement, "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv but in Washington. Kyiv only does what it is told to do."

Ukraine has denied its involvement in the attack, while some reports suggest that Russia could have staged this attack to use this as a pretext for the impending escalation.

<h2>Zelensky meets with the ICC president</h2>

Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with ICC President&nbsp;Piotr Hofmanski on Thursday in The Hague for talks. The details of the talks were not made public. This was Zelensky's first official visit to the Netherlands, and he spent under one hour at the ICC's headquarters.&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Thursday insisted that Russian leader Vladimir Putin must be brought to justice for his war crimes in Ukraine. Zelensky made this statement while delivering a speech at The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is based. While referring to Putin, Zelensky said, “We all want to see a different Vladimir here in the Hague, the one who deserves to be sanctioned for his criminal actions here, in the capital of international law." Watch: War at Ukraine: Russia opens probe into Kremlin attack | Russia-Ukraine War × “I'm sure we will see that happen when we win," he said, adding, "Whoever brings war must receive judgement." The ICC in March had issued an arrest warrant for Putin for allegedly deporting children from war-ravaged regions of Ukraine. On the flip side, Russia has rejected ICC’s allegations and jurisdiction over its conflict with Ukraine, which it prefers to call a “special military operation.” Ukraine not seeking NATO membership during war Zelensky on Thursday clarified that his country will not join NATO during the war with Russia. "We are realistic, we know we will not be in NATO during the war," he said after meeting Dutch and Belgian Prime Ministers Mark Rutte and Alexander De Croo. He further added, "But we want a very clear message that we will be in NATO after the war." Key points from Zelensky’s speech at The Hague Zelensky again called for setting up a war tribunal to hold Russia accountable for its “war crimes” in Ukraine. Zelensky claimed that Russia committed 6,000 war crimes in April alone, which led to the death of at least 207 Ukrainian civilians, including children. He also thanked the Dutch leadership for its unwavering support of Ukraine and for supplying it with weapons. He reiterated that a war is won by “force of arms.” He referred to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as “the war we didn't want, the one we have to make the last - and we will do it" The speech comes in the backdrop of ‘Ukraine drone strike’ controversy Zelensky delivered his speech in The Hague a day after Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to strike the Kremlin with its kamikaze drone. The Kremlin said it perceives the attack as an attempt on Putin’s life. Russia's ex-president Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday called for the “physical elimination” of Zelensky. The leader said, “After today's terrorist attack, there are no options left aside from the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal." Russia accuses the US of masterminding the attack The Kremlin on Thursday blamed the US for orchestrating the drone attack. The Kremlin said in a statement, "Decisions on such attacks are not made in Kyiv but in Washington. Kyiv only does what it is told to do." Ukraine has denied its involvement in the attack, while some reports suggest that Russia could have staged this attack to use this as a pretext for the impending escalation. Zelensky meets with the ICC president Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with ICC President Piotr Hofmanski on Thursday in The Hague for talks. The details of the talks were not made public. This was Zelensky's first official visit to the Netherlands, and he spent under one hour at the ICC's headquarters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine will not join NATO during war, Zelensky says after meeting European leaders

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