**Title: Russia Slams U.S. Hypocrisy Over ICC Investigation into Israel's Actions in Gaza**
Russia has issued a scathing condemnation of what it perceives as the United States' hypocritical stance regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into alleged Israeli crimes during the conflict in Gaza. The criticism comes amidst Washington's opposition to the ICC's probe while simultaneously supporting ICC actions against Russia.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, took to the social network Telegram to denounce what she described as the "hypocrisy" of U.S. policy. Zakharova highlighted the inconsistency of the United States fully endorsing ICC warrants against Russian leadership while rejecting the court's legitimacy when it seeks to investigate alleged U.S. and allied crimes. She characterized this stance as "intellectual nonsense."
The ICC's involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict intensified after the court initiated an investigation into alleged war crimes committed by the Israeli army against Palestinian civilians in Gaza. This move has faced staunch opposition from the United States, with White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterating Washington's disapproval of the ICC probe.
The U.S. position on the ICC's investigation stands in stark contrast to its earlier support for ICC actions against Russia. In March 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over accusations of war crimes in Ukraine, a move that garnered approval from then-U.S. President Joe Biden.
Simultaneously, U.S. lawmakers are reportedly drafting legislation aimed at countering the ICC if it proceeds with issuing arrest warrants against high-ranking Israeli officials implicated in alleged war crimes in Gaza.
The Gaza conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians and left tens of thousands more injured, has drawn international scrutiny and calls for accountability for all parties involved.
As tensions escalate over the ICC's role in investigating alleged atrocities, the divergent responses from global powers underscore the complexities and challenges of international justice and diplomacy in conflict zones.
