Netanyahu and Lindsey Graham Recordings Spark Claims of Pressure Campaign Against ICC Prosecutor
Newly reported recordings have raised questions about an alleged effort by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Senator Lindsey Graham to challenge the International Criminal Court’s planned arrest warrants over the Gaza war.
The recordings, reportedly from October 2024, show discussions about using sexual misconduct allegations against ICC prosecutor Karim Khan as a reason to seek a delay in the court’s decision. Netanyahu allegedly suggested that Graham and other senators send a letter calling for a review of the process.
The letter was later sent but did not prevent ICC judges from issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu, former Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant, and several Hamas officials in November 2024.
Khan has denied misconduct allegations, and a previous ICC review found no wrongdoing. Critics of the process have raised concerns about political pressure on the court, while supporters of the decision argue accountability issues must be addressed.
