Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

ICC Drafts Arrest Warrants for Israeli Ministers Amid Apartheid Charges

8/16/2025

43 6

Summary

Story summary

The ICC has drafted arrest warrants for Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich on apartheid charges.
This represents a potential first for apartheid charges in an international court.
Sources indicate the warrants may not be submitted due to external pressures, including US sanctions.
ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is on leave during a UN investigation into misconduct allegations.

1 of 1

Story summary

The ICC has drafted arrest warrants for Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich on apartheid charges.
This represents a potential first for apartheid charges in an international court.
Sources indicate the warrants may not be submitted due to external pressures, including US sanctions.
ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is on leave during a UN investigation into misconduct allegations.