Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly criticized former International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan following Khan's removal from office amid sexual misconduct allegations.
Khan, who spearheaded the 2024 ICC charges against Netanyahu and other Israeli officials over alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict, was suspended last month and formally removed in a secret ballot at the United Nations headquarters. The vote saw 82 out of 125 member states back his dismissal for "serious misconduct and a serious breach of duty." Khan denies the accusations and plans to contest the decision through legal channels.
Netanyahu's Response
Speaking on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures," Netanyahu labeled Khan a "con job," suggesting the prosecutor pursued charges against him to secure his position. "He thought, if there's an indictment, I'm going to have a job. There was an indictment, and he lost his job," Netanyahu said, adding that a majority of nations recognized Khan's alleged deceit.
The ICC charges had complicated Netanyahu's international travel, particularly to countries affiliated with the Hague-based court.
Political Fallout and Future Plans
- Netanyahu also targeted New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who had threatened to arrest the Israeli leader if he visited the city, calling the mayor's stance "bogus charges" and accusing him of fomenting anti-Jewish sentiment.
- Despite tensions, Netanyahu confirmed his intention to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September to advocate for Israel and strengthen the Israeli-American alliance.
