In dismissing calls for Netanyahu’s arrest, the West is undermining its own world order

Holding actors like Putin to account relies on international law. If Israel’s allies flout it, how can they convince others to respect their rules?

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu: The International Criminal Court has sought a warrant for his arrest, along with Hamas leaders. Picture: AP /Ohad Zwigenberg

Since its inception, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has charged 50 people, 47 of whom were African. 

Its investigations have also been overwhelmingly focused on war crimes and crimes against humanity in African nations. What has long been understood but never stated is that the court and its processes, to put it bluntly, target a certain type of political leadership that is easier to go after.