Palestine could ‘lose millions in US aid’ if they sue Israel in ICC, senator warns

‘Palestine could have millions of dollars of crucial American aid withdrawn if they attempt to use their newly-acquired membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC) to sue Israel for alleged atrocities carried out during the last conflict, a Republican senator has warned.

Senator Lindsey Graham said existing US legislation “would cut off aid to the Palestinians if they filed a complaint.” The US has already hinted that using the ICC to pursue Israel would hinder the aspirations of Palestinian people for statehood. Its follows more than 40 rejections for the Palestinians’ bid for self-determination made since 1975.

At a news conference in Jerusalem, Mr Graham called the prospect of mounting a lawsuit against Israel a “bastardising of the role of the ICC” adding: “I find it incredibly offensive.”‘

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