UNITED NATIONS, Nov 28 (Alliance News): The International Criminal Court (ICC) has requested an arrest warrant for Myanmar’s Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, accusing him of crimes against humanity targeting the Rohingya Muslim population.
The application, announced Wednesday, follows an ICC investigation into the 2016-2017 violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Prosecutor Karim Khan cited “reasonable grounds” to believe Min Aung Hlaing is responsible for deportation and persecution of the Rohingya.
The charges involve atrocities committed by the Tatmadaw military, police, and others, including systematic killings, gender-based violence, and the destruction of over 300 villages. Over one million Rohingya were displaced, with many fleeing to Bangladesh.
“This is the first arrest warrant against a senior Myanmar official from my Office. More will follow,” Khan stated, emphasizing the ICC’s commitment to justice for the Rohingya.
The case draws on extensive evidence, including survivor testimonies, documents, and support from the Bangladeshi government and international bodies like the UN’s Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM).
The decision now lies with ICC judges, who will determine whether the evidence justifies an arrest warrant.
Nicholas Koumjian, head of the IIMM, hailed the move as a powerful step towards accountability. “This sends a strong message that no one is above the law,” he said.
The ICC, headquartered in The Hague, is tasked with addressing severe international crimes when national systems fail to act, ensuring justice for victims worldwide.
