Countries have announced their readiness to arrest Netanyahu and a European leader has invited him to meet with him
On November 22, 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Galant, and Hamas military leader Muhammad al-Deif. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity. Responses to the ICC decision vary by country.
Ireland:
Prime Minister Simon Harris stated that Ireland would arrest Netanyahu if he visited. He affirmed support for the ICC’s decisions.
Slovenia:
Prime Minister Robert Golub announced that Slovenia would fully comply with the ICC’s arrest warrant.
Germany:
A government spokesman indicated that Germany would examine its options regarding the warrant. They noted a strong relationship and responsibility to Israel.
Hungary:
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán challenged the ICC’s decision and invited Netanyahu to Hungary, ensuring that the warrant would not apply there.
Italy:
Defense Minister Guido Crosetto confirmed that Italy would be obligated to arrest Netanyahu if he came to Italy, while expressing disagreement with the court’s ruling.
United States:
President Joe Biden condemned the ICC’s decision as outrageous, arguing that it unfairly equates Hamas and Israel. He reiterated U.S. support for Israel.
Hamas:
Izzat al-Rishq from Hamas welcomed the ICC’s decision, calling it a step towards justice. He urged countries to support the ICC and criticized the U.S. stance.
Canada:
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed commitment to the ICC’s regulations and judgments.
United Kingdom:
A spokesman for the Prime Minister emphasized London’s respect for the ICC’s independence.
France:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed support for the ICC’s functions under the Rome Statute and clarified that the arrest warrants are accusations, not judgments.
Netherlands:
Foreign Minister Caspar Feldkamp canceled a visit to Israel in response to the ICC ruling, expressing readiness to implement the court’s decisions.
Switzerland:
Officials stated that they would arrest Netanyahu and Galant if they arrived. They also expressed respect for the ICC’s independence.
Cyprus:
An official noted that Cyprus respects the ICC’s decisions and considers them binding, despite its ties to Israel.
China:
A foreign ministry spokesperson called for the ICC to maintain objectivity and legality regarding the arrest warrant.
Iran:
Revolutionary Guard Commander Hossein Salami declared the ICC’s decision as a sign of Israel’s political isolation.
Senator Bernie Sanders:
The U.S. senator supported the ICC’s decision, stating that the charges are founded on solid evidence. He emphasized the importance of adhering to international law.