Netanyahu Denies Starving Civilians in Gaza, Calls ICC Application "Pack of Lies"

Section 1: Netanyahu's Denial and Accusations Against ICC Netanyahu dismissed the ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, as a "rogue prosecutor" and claimed that the arrest warrant application is based on a "pack of lies." He insisted that Israel has been allowing food and medical aid to enter Gaza, contradicting claims by aid groups that the blockaded Palestinian enclave is at risk of famine. Netanyahu stated that 20,000 trucks of aid have been allowed into Gaza, although this is significantly lower than what would have been expected under normal circumstances. Section 2: Ongoing Siege of Gaza and Questions Raised The ongoing siege of Gaza, which has lasted for seven months, has resulted in a significant number of casualties. More than 34,000 people have lost their lives, raising serious concerns about Israel's long-term strategy. The Israeli military's decision to send troops back into areas previously declared clear of Hamas has sparked debates both within and outside of Israel. Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has called for Netanyahu to publicly rule out Israeli governance over Gaza and provide post-war plans for civilian rule.

Section 3: Unpopularity and Corruption Trial Netanyahu, who is currently facing an ongoing corruption trial, is deeply unpopular in Israel. Critics accuse him of prolonging the war to maintain his grip on power and being influenced by far-right coalition members. Netanyahu rejected claims that he avoids Israeli media in favor of international press, stating that he has held numerous press conferences with Israeli journalists. Section 4: International Reactions and Implications The ICC's application for arrest warrants against Netanyahu marks the first time the court has targeted the top leader of a close ally of the United States. While France and international rights groups support the ICC's decision, Israel's allies, including the US, have strongly condemned it. US President Joe Biden called the move "outrageous," and some lawmakers have threatened to impose sanctions against the ICC. The ICC's arrest warrant, if granted, would require member nations to arrest Netanyahu if he travels within their territories.