Pakistan, July 8 -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Afghan Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada and Chief Justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani, citing crimes against humanity related to gender-based persecution of women.

According to foreign media reports, the ICC took the step following investigations into forced measures and systemic oppression imposed on women under Taliban rule. The court found credible evidence indicating that both leaders were involved in actions that amount to gender-based crimes against humanity.

An ICC judge stated in the ruling that there are "reasonable grounds" to believe the Taliban leaders committed serious violations of human rights by enforcing policies that severely ...