Foreign Minister Penny Wong has responded to the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defence minister and Hamas officials.
It is accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity over the Gaza war and the October 2023 attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in the Palestinian territory.
Wong posted a statement on social media platform X, saying Australia respected the role of the ICC.
“Australia respects the independence of the (ICC) and its important role in upholding international law.
“We have been clear that all parties to the conflict must comply with international humanitarian law.
“Civilians must be protected. Hostages must be released. Rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian relief must reach civilians. Aid workers must be protected to enable their lifesaving work.”
Wond has come under intense criticism from various quarters in Australia in response to her ‘controversial’ comments.
US President Joe Biden also blasted the prosecutor and expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas. Hamas also slammed the request.
“The Chamber considered that there are reasonable grounds to believe that both individuals intentionally and knowingly deprived the civilian population in Gaza of objects indispensable to their survival, including food, water, and medicine and medical supplies, as well as fuel and electricity,” the three-judge panel wrote in its unanimous decision to issue warrants for Netanyahu and his former defence minister, Yoav Gallant.
The court also issued a warrant for Mohammed Deif, one of the leaders of Hamas, over the October 2023 attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in Gaza.