The former head of Israel’s Mossad allegedly pressured the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to drop a war crimes investigation into Israeli conduct in Palestinian territories. Yossi Cohen’s covert efforts spanned years, aiming to thwart the ICC’s inquiry. Cohen, acting as Netanyahu’s unofficial messenger, led Mossad’s campaign to undermine the court. Multiple sources confirm Cohen’s attempts to sway the prosecutor, including alleged threats and manipulation, prompting Bensouda to inform senior ICC officials. Israel’s Mossad also reportedly targeted Bensouda’s family members, obtaining secret recordings to discredit her. The revelations are part of an investigation into Israeli intelligence agencies’ covert actions against the ICC. Efforts to influence Bensouda could constitute offenses under the ICC’s Rome Statute. The current chief prosecutor, Khan, warned against attempts to unduly influence ICC officials. Israel’s opposition to the ICC stems from fears of potential prosecutions of its citizens. Diplomatic efforts, including US sanctions, aimed to pressure Bensouda. Despite these, the ICC confirmed jurisdiction in occupied Palestinian territories in 2021, leading to a criminal investigation. Bensouda’s term ended before the investigation gained urgency following Hamas attacks, resulting in arrest warrants sought against Netanyahu and others. Israel’s intimidation tactics through Mossad, led by Cohen, ultimately failed to deter ICC’s actions.
