International Criminal Court condemns attempts to 'impede, undermine' its authority

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has condemned attempts to "impede and undermine" its authority amid rumoured threats against it if arrest warrants are issued against Israeli leaders over crimes committed during the ongoing war on Gaza. 

In a statement on Friday, the court said that "independence and impartiality are undermined" when "individuals threaten to retaliate against the Court or against Court personnel should the Office, in fulfilment of its mandate, make decisions about investigations or cases falling within its jurisdiction". 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a video statement earlier this week condemning potential ICC action as "outrageous", and said it would not deter Israel in its military actions in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and Israeli military chief of staff Herzi Halevi are believed to be the most likely to be charged, according to multiple media reports. 

On Wednesday, Axios reported that Israel warned Washington that it would take steps which would lead to the collapse of the Palestinian Authority if the ICC charged Israeli leaders.

"The Office insists that all attempts to impede, intimidate or improperly influence its officials cease immediately," the ICC statement said.