ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Taliban Leaders Over Alleged Crimes Against Women

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Taliban leaders Haibatullah Akhunzada and Abdul Hakim Haqqani over alleged gender-based persecution of women and girls in Afghanistan. The ICC cites deprivation of rights like education, movement, and expression since the Taliban's takeover in August 2021. The Taliban rejected the charges, denying ICC authority. The warrants were welcomed by rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. The ICC faces enforcement challenges, as it depends on member states. The case follows earlier ICC action against Israeli leaders over Gaza war crimes, highlighting global divisions over the court's authority.