Horrific crimes committed during the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Palestinian armed groups have drawn international attention. Despite this, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has not received substantial support from member countries to investigate these grave abuses. While Israel is not a member of the ICC, the State of Palestine is, making it within the court's jurisdiction to examine alleged serious crimes.

The United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory recently confirmed the existence of "clear evidence" of war crimes in Israel and Gaza. In response, this information is being shared with relevant judicial authorities, particularly the ICC. However, Human Rights Watch reports that only three ICC member countries, namely Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and South Africa, have made explicit statements acknowledging the ICC's role in addressing the current hostilities. Ireland's foreign minister also referenced the court's involvement in media remarks. It appears that for many countries, the ICC remains an unspoken participant in the discussion.

This contrast in international support for ICC investigations is evident in other conflict situations as well. In the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the ICC prosecutor voiced the crucial role of the court, leading to numerous ICC member countries, mostly from Europe, urging an investigation into the Ukraine crisis. Remarkably, even the United States, a non-ICC member, expressed firm support for the ICC's role in Ukraine.

It is noteworthy that the ICC prosecutor has not actively issued a public statement reminding Israel and Palestinian armed groups of their obligations under international law, as well as the court's mandate to investigate their actions. The urgent need for the court's voice is crucial in preventing further mass atrocities.

The lack of consistent accountability for victims is unacceptable and raises concerns of double standards. In light of this, the UN General Assembly will hold an emergency special session on October 26 after the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution. This session offers an opportunity for countries to prioritize justice, and it remains to be seen if they will raise their voices in support of the ICC's intervention.

As the conflict continues to escalate, pressure mounts on ICC member countries to acknowledge and support the court's role in investigating the grave crimes committed in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The pursuit of justice and impartiality is essential for the victims and the larger international community.