Ordinary Palestinians in Gaza welcome the ICC's announcement, saying they hope it will bring "justice".

The court has the power to bring prosecutions for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.

ICC announces external probe into chief prosecutor over sexual misconduct allegations

Karim Khan also asks for an immediate investigation into the allegations against him.

Mr Khan tells the BBC it is important to show the court will hold all nations to the same standard.

The Russian leader's visit to the ICC-member state is seen as a show of defiance against the Hague.

Moscow says it has "no worries" about the visit, which is expected to happen next week.

Al-Hassan ag Abdoul Aziz ag Mohamed ag Mahmoud led a "reign of terror" in Timbuktu, the ICC finds.