Criticism of Chief Prosecutor Khan
Biden rejects genocide accusation against Israel
May 21, 2024, 2:05 a.m
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It is not yet clear whether the International Court of Justice will begin proceedings against Israel’s head of government. In any case, US President Biden clearly rejects the chief prosecutor’s push for an arrest warrant. The war in Gaza has nothing to do with genocide.
US President Joe Biden has rejected accusations against the Israeli leadership that they are committing genocide against Palestinians in the fight against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. “Contrary to the International Court of Justice’s allegations against Israel, this is not genocide,” Biden said in the Rose Garden of the White House at a celebration of the achievements of American Jews in the United States. “We reject this. We stand with Israel.” The US government had previously made similar statements.
South Africa had repeatedly called on the International Court of Justice to take action against Israel and accused the country of genocide. In emergency rulings, the UN judges obliged Israel to do everything possible to prevent genocide and to allow humanitarian aid. On Monday, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) also requested an arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity against Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Joav Galant. Arrest warrants were also requested against the leader of the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Jihia al-Sinwar, and other Hamas representatives.
Biden calls chief prosecutor’s actions “outrageous”
Biden reiterated that the US government rejects the actions of the ICC chief prosecutor. There is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas, said the US President. Biden had previously called the actions of the Hague court “outrageous”. “Whatever this accuser may imply, there is no equivalence – none – between Israel and Hamas.”
Biden also indirectly addressed the withholding of a US munitions shipment because of Israel’s actions in the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip – he said: “Let me be clear: I will always ensure that Israel has everything it needs to defend itself against the To defend Hamas and all other enemies.”
Biden also emphasized: “My commitment to the security of the Jewish people, to the security of Israel and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state is unwavering.” The US government continues to advocate for a two-state solution that brings security and lasting peace.