May 28, 2024–Three years ago, the International Criminal Court launched an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian territories.
The time period included the 2014 Israel-Gaza War, in which 2,300 Palestinians were killed. The investigation would put hundreds of Israelis, including soldiers and political figures, at risk of prosecution. The ICC Chief Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda promised a fair process that would bring accountability and justice for Palestinians and Israelis.
“In the end, our central concern must be for the victims of crimes – both Palestinian and Israel – arising from the long cycle of violence and insecurity that has caused deep suffering and despair on all sides,” said Bensouda.
‘Fiercely Resisted’ Inquiry
The Guardian described it as a “long-awaited inquiry” that Israel “fiercely resisted.” Now we know just how fiercely Israel resisted.
Yossi Cohen, head of Mossad spy agency from 2016-2021, launched an arm-twisting pressure campaign to force the prosecutor to drop the investigation. In a mafiosa-style fashion, Cohen is said to have told Bensouda, “You should help us and let us take care of you. You don’t want to be getting into things that could compromise your security or that of your family.”
The Guardian reports today, that “The Mossad also took a keen interest in Bensouda’s family members and obtained transcripts of secret recordings of her husband, according to two sources with direct knowledge of the situation. Israeli officials then attempted to use the material to discredit the prosecutor.”
U.S. Politicians Amp Up Pressure
More recently, the ICC issued a statement in response to a pressure campaign to silence the court related to Israel-Palestine. It comes after several U.S. senators threatened to sanction the court ahead of its announcement it is requesting arrest warrants for Israel and Hamas leaders.
“The Presidency regrets any attempts to undermine the Court’s independence, integrity and impartiality. Some statements may constitute threats of retaliation against the Court and its officials, in the event the Court exercises its judicial functions as mandated in the Rome Statute,” the court wrote.
Sources: The Guardian March 3, 2021 & May 28, 2024; The ICC May 17, 2024
