US Sanctions ICC Officials Over Gaza War Crimes Investigation; Israel Strikes Hamas Targets

The United States has announced sanctions against the president and a prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) who were investigating alleged war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the ICC as "corrupt and fatally politicized," accusing it of exceeding its mandate. This move comes as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza, with recent strikes targeting Hamas commanders in Gaza City, resulting in casualties.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with Jared Kushner, a US envoy, meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss a stalled ceasefire and rebuilding plan for Gaza. Despite these discussions, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's stance that troops will not withdraw until Hamas disarms, indicating no immediate breakthrough. The ongoing conflict and its international legal ramifications are further complicated by internal Israeli political dynamics, including campaign tactics that draw parallels between political figures and hostile entities.