House GOP shields Netanyahu from ICC in contentious rules package

As the GOP-controlled House of Representatives gears up for its 119th session, a significant controversy has emerged within its ranks.

Thomas Massie publicly criticized a component of the proposed rules package designed to protect Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecution.

This reaction follows the ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other prominent figures for their roles in the Gaza war.

The contentious bill, labeled as a special protection provision for Netanyahu, has sparked debate among Republicans.

Marjorie Taylor Greene has also voiced her opposition.

The rules package includes changes like the reestablishment of panels and promotion of electronic voting.

It is set for a vote immediately after the new speaker’s election.

The internal discord highlights the GOP’s broader struggle with prioritizing international relations and national sovereignty in their legislative agenda.

Under the American Service Members’ Protection Act, also known as the Hague Invasion Act, Biden can use any necessary means to release Americans or allies held by the ICC.

This authority soon will pass to President-elect Donald Trump.

Both Biden and Trump have criticized the ICC’s arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Israel’s ex-defense chief Yoav Gallant.

Meanwhile, a few progressives, including Rashida Tlaib, have supported the warrants.

Tlaib, a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the only Palestinian American in Congress, also criticized the U.S. for its extensive military support to Israel.