US defense secretary tells Israeli counterpart it 'strongly objects' to ICC case

Washington strongly opposes an “outrageous” request submitted by International Criminal Court (ICC) the US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III told his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant.

Earlier this week prosecutor Karim Khan issued arrest warrants against Gallant and Prime Minister Netanyahu.

“Secretary Austin reiterated strong US objections to the International Criminal Court prosecutor’s outrageous application for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders,” the statement said.

Austin also added that he “encouraged the Israeli government to conclude talks with Egypt to reopen the Rafah Crossing and resume the flow of aid from Egypt” on a call with Gallant.

I spoke to Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today to discuss the ICC's outrageous equivalence of Israel and Hamas, the urgent need to accelerate humanitarian assistance to Gaza and the importance of protecting civilians in Rafah, and the urgent release of all hostages.…
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) May 22, 2024