In a shocking legal U-turn, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber has overturned its own Pre-Trial Chamber’s November 2024 decision, effectively blocking potential arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The unexpected reversal has sparked accusations of political interference and undermined the court’s credibility. 

The initial ruling had opened the door for prosecuting Israeli officials, drawing fierce backlash from Israel and its allies. Now, the Appeals Chamber’s decision reportedly influenced by intense diplomatic pressure has abruptly halted the case, raising questions about the ICC’s independence. Legal experts warn this sets a dangerous precedent, allowing powerful nations to evade accountability. 

Human rights groups have condemned the reversal as a betrayal of justice, while Palestinian officials call it proof of Western double standards. Meanwhile, Israel celebrates the decision as a vindication of its stance that the ICC lacked jurisdiction. 

The scandal leaves the ICC’s reputation in tatters, with critics arguing the court buckled under political pressure rather than upholding international law. The abrupt dismissal of the case without thorough examination marks one of the most controversial moments in the ICC’s history.