In a significant escalation of rhetoric, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly called for the issuance of death sentences against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This demand follows the recent arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for both officials, citing their alleged involvement in war crimes during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
During a meeting with members of the Basij paramilitary force, Khamenei stated that the ICC's actions were insufficient, declaring, "Issuing an arrest warrant is not enough; a death sentence for Netanyahu should be issued." He condemned Israel's military operations in Gaza as "not a victory but a war crime," emphasizing that the leaders responsible for these actions must face severe penalties.
The ICC's warrants, issued on November 21, 2024, allege that Netanyahu and Gallant bear criminal responsibility for using starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally targeting civilians in Gaza. The court has characterized these actions as part of a "widespread and systematic attack" against the civilian population, which has resulted in significant loss of life and humanitarian crises in the region.
Khamenei's remarks reflect Iran's longstanding opposition to Israel and its support for Palestinian militant groups such as Hamas. He reiterated Iran's commitment to opposing Israeli actions, stating that Iranian forces would ultimately "destroy the Zionist regime." This statement comes amid heightened tensions following Hamas's attacks on October 7, 2023, which initiated a renewed cycle of violence.
Iranian officials have further indicated that it may be possible to establish a joint court with like-minded nations to pursue legal actions against Israeli leaders. Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs, noted that while the ICC has taken initial steps by issuing arrest warrants, more decisive actions could be pursued through international collaboration.