ICC’s credibility teeters in Israel-Palestine conflict.

In 2002, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court came into effect, bringing hope for an end to impunity for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. However, over two decades later, the ICC’s legitimacy is in question as it delays action against those responsible for mass atrocities in Gaza, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders.

The concept of international justice has a long history, from post-World War I discussions to the establishment of the Nuremberg and Tokyo tribunals after World War II. In recent times, ad hoc tribunals were set up to address conflicts in the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, raising concerns about selectivity and independence.

Despite hopes pinned on the ICC as a permanent international tribunal, challenges persist. The court’s actions, including indictments against Russians for war crimes in Georgia and against Russian President Vladimir Putin for actions in Ukraine, have sparked debates about political influence.

Now, as the ICC considers arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other leaders involved in the Gaza conflict, the stakes are high. The court’s credibility hangs in the balance, emphasizing the crucial role of international justice in holding perpetrators of crimes against humanity accountable.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.