Maldives Supports ICC Arrest Warrant Application for Israeli PM Netanyahu

Prosecutor Khan stated that the alleged crimes against humanity were part of a widespread and systematic attack on the Palestinian civilian population under state policy, asserting that these actions continue to this day.

In a statement, the Maldivian government condemned the ongoing aggression and genocidal acts by Israel against the Palestinian people, citing a blatant disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law. The statement emphasized that these actions have resulted in a large-scale humanitarian catastrophe.

"The Government of Maldives echoes the belief of the Prosecutor that both Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant must bear criminal responsibility for the war crimes and crimes against humanity committed against the people of Palestine," the statement read. The Maldives, as a State Party to the Rome Statute, underscored the importance of adhering to international law and upholding justice and accountability.

The Maldivian government expressed confidence in the impartiality and integrity of the ICC and believes that the Prosecutor has provided sufficient evidence to support the war crimes claims against Israel. The statement reaffirmed Maldives' steadfast support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and statehood.

ICC judges will now review the application to determine if it meets the criteria for issuing the warrants, a process that may take several weeks or months. If granted, any of the 124 ICC member states would be obligated to arrest Netanyahu if he travels to their territory.