Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant responded this evening (Thursday) to the International Criminal Court's decision in The Hague to issue arrest warrants against him and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sharply criticizing the move in his remarks and clarifying that the IDF will continue to act to protect the citizens of Israel.
"The decision of the Hague court will be remembered for infamy – it places the State of Israel and the murderous Hamas leaders on the same line, thereby legitimizing the murder of infants, the rape of women, and the abduction of the elderly from their beds," said Gallant. "The decision sets a dangerous precedent against the right to self-defense and moral warfare, and it encourages murderous terrorism."
"The days when it was possible to deny us the right to defend ourselves are gone forever," he added. "The attempt to deny Israel the right to achieve its goals in its just war will fail – IDF fighters and security forces will continue their operations until the hostages are returned, Hamas is dismantled, and the residents of Israel are safely returned to their homes."
In conclusion, Gallant clarified that he is "proud of the privilege given to me to lead the security system in the difficult and highly successful war imposed on us – strengthening the security forces, who operate according to law and justice in their missions in the 'Seven Fronts' war – the war that will determine our future in our land for decades to come."
