1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The International Criminal Court's decision to issue an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza marks a significant moment in holding individuals accountable for violations of international law. This move challenges the notion that state leaders should be immune from prosecution for such grave offenses. While some Western allies have condemned the ICC's actions, the principles established at the Nuremberg Trials recognized that individuals, not just states, bear responsibility for breaching international laws and norms. The rift amongst Western nations regarding Netanyahu's arrest warrant threatens to undermine the ICC's authority and the international legal order it represents. Estimates indicate nearly 170 million civilians have been subjected to genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in the past century alone. Failing to hold individuals legally accountable for such atrocities risks compounding this staggering toll. In light of these concerns, I urge you to support measures that strengthen the ICC's ability to prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity, regardless of the perpetrator's position or allegiance. A comprehensive arms embargo on Israel and the deployment of UN peacekeepers to Palestine could help de-escalate the conflict and prevent further civilian suffering. Ultimately, upholding the principles of international law and holding all war criminals accountable, without exception, is crucial to maintaining global stability and protecting human rights.