Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has claimed that he was informed the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague has requested an arrest warrant against him over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed against Palestinians.
In response, Smotrich said he would order the forced displacement of residents from a Palestinian neighborhood in the occupied West Bank.
His remarks have sparked concern among observers, as the ICC has recently intensified its focus on investigations related to the conflict in the Palestinian territories.
Human rights groups and analysts warn that such statements could further escalate tensions and increase pressure on Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.
The ICC has not publicly confirmed Smotrich’s claim, and no official statement has yet been issued regarding the alleged request.