In a bold legal move, Alan Dershowitz has assembled a top legal coalition to defend Israel’s leaders against charges from the International Criminal Court (ICC).
At a Glance
- Alan Dershowitz is leading a legal team to defend Israeli leaders at the ICC.
- The team includes notable former attorneys and international figures.
- Charges involve alleged war crimes related to Israel’s response to a Hamas attack.
- The effort challenges perceived biases against Israel in international law.
Dershowitz Assembles a Legal Dream Team
Alan Dershowitz, renowned lawyer and zealous advocate for Israel, has announced a plan to create a formidable legal team in response to the ICC’s charges against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The ICC has issued arrest warrants citing crimes against humanity following Israel’s reaction to the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas. The charges include alleged war crimes against Palestinian Authority Arabs in Gaza.
The team, described by Dershowitz as a “legal dream team,” comprises distinguished figures such as former Attorneys General Michael Mukasey and William Barr, former FBI Director Louis Freeh, and Fox News host Mark Levin. Other key members include former Solicitor General Seth Waxman and former Canadian Attorney General Irwin Cotler.
Does the ICC have jurisdiction to try Netanyahu? pic.twitter.com/GAzA6ePP05
— Alan Dershowitz (@AlanDersh) May 29, 2024
Challenging the ICC’s Charges
Alan Dershowitz has strongly contested the ICC’s charges, branding them as unfounded and indicative of bias against Israel. His response highlights broader discussions about international justice systems’ roles, particularly concerning national sovereignty. Dershowitz plans to wage his defense in both legal arenas and on the international public stage, rallying global opinion against what he views as discriminatory actions by the ICC.
“I have an op-ed in today’s Wall Street Journal entitled, ‘I’m putting together a legal dream team to defend Israel,’ and in it, I talk about the International Criminal Court’s outrageous decision to issue arrest warrants against the democratically elected leaders of Israel.” – Alan Dershowitz
This legal battle reflects Dershowitz’s dedication to refuting the ICC charges perceived as part of broader international challenges, including pressure from countries like South Africa and other anti-Israel factions. Additionally, Dershowitz has called for the U.S. to impose sanctions on the ICC, a move that’s already been considered in the corridors of Congress.
A close friend of Netanyahu, lawyer Alan Dershowitz was reportedly on Israel's list of candidates to defend it on charges of genocide before the ICJ. His past clients include Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. https://t.co/8FiT7iYQro
— Intelligence Online (@Intel_Online) January 15, 2024
A Coalition in the Face of Global Scrutiny
The coalition, with diverse and bipartisan figures like David Boies and Susan Estrich, illustrates a united front despite past litigious differences. Their collaboration underscores the gravity and global interest surrounding the ICC’s actions against Israel. Dershowitz reports receiving numerous calls and emails from legal professionals eager to partake in the effort, underscoring the widespread dismay over the ICC’s approach.
“Since the op-ed was published today, I got dozens and dozens more calls and emails from lawyers wanting to join up, people just outraged at the way in which [the ICC] is abusing international law and making it a disgrace.” – Alan Dershowitz
This step underscores a significant shift towards defending national interests and challenging the complexities of international legal systems’ actions. Dershowitz’s initiative represents not just a legal defense but a diplomatic exercise in highlighting prejudices and defending sovereignty. The outcome of this case may very well shape future interactions within the global international justice system.
