Türkiye welcomes ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu as world leaders split over decision

Israel and its allies denounced the International Criminal Court's decision to issue an arrest warrant Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as Türkiye—and rights groups—welcomed the move.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Thursday praised the recent issuance of arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, referring to it as a significant step toward achieving justice.

Fidan described the ICC decision as a "promising" development for justice, adding that it is "a vital step" in holding Israeli officials accountable for alleged genocide against Palestinians. He emphasized Türkiye's commitment to ensuring the enforcement of international law to address such crimes.

Fidan said that this effort is not just a responsibility to Palestinians but also to all oppressed communities and future generations.

The ICC announced the arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant on Thursday, citing allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

The court's decision comes as the Israeli offensive in Gaza enters its second year, with reported casualties exceeding 44,000 Palestinians—most of them women and children—and over 103,000 injured. The ongoing blockade has additionally led to widespread displacement and critical shortages of essentials like food, water, and medical supplies.

The decision was also welcomed by Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş and Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç.

Kurtulmuş, in a statement on social media platform X, described the move as a "historic step" challenging Israel's perceived impunity. He argued that the decision demonstrates global support for Palestinians and called for the suspension of Israel's United Nations membership over...