Taliban Denounces ICC Arrest Warrant as Politically Motivated

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The Taliban government in Afghanistan has rejected an arrest warrant sought by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its leaders, labeling it as "politically motivated." This response comes closely after ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan announced his intention to request warrants against senior Taliban officials for the persecution of women, identified as a crime against humanity.

In a statement shared on social media, the Taliban's Foreign Ministry criticized the ICC's decision, alleging a lack of legal foundation and claiming it reflects double standards. They expressed disappointment that the court has not addressed alleged war crimes by foreign forces during the two-decade-long occupation of Afghanistan.

The Taliban emphasized that it upholds Afghan women's rights under sharia law, although many of its practices have been condemned globally and are seen as severe restrictions, including prohibitions on education for girls, mandated Islamic dress codes, and bans on women's presence in public parks and government roles.

Deputy interior minister Mohammad Nabi Omari asserted that the ICC's actions would not intimidate the Taliban, urging that if justice were to be served, it should include holding accountable those responsible for conflicts around the world, including the United States and Israel.

The ICC, based in The Hague, is tasked with adjudicating international crimes, but it lacks enforcement capabilities and relies on member states to act on its warrants. The process to issue the requested warrants may take weeks or even months, during which the ICC plans to pursue further actions against additional Taliban officials.

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