Germany has indicated it will not arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the country, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The decision reflects Germany’s unique historical relationship with Israel and its sensitivity regarding the Holocaust.
Steffen Hebestreit, spokesperson for Chancellor Olaf Scholz, stated, “I find it hard to imagine that arrests could be carried out in Germany on this basis.” Netanyahu has denounced the ICC’s charges as “anti-Semitic,” and his government has strongly rejected the accusations.
Mixed International Reactions
While Germany distances itself from enforcing the ICC warrant, other nations, including the UK, have taken a firmer stance. Downing Street emphasized that Britain would “always comply with its legal obligations as set out by domestic and international law,” leaving open the possibility of arresting Netanyahu if he travels to the UK. However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government has refused to engage in “hypotheticals” on the matter.
President Joe Biden sharply criticized the ICC’s move, calling it “outrageous.” He reiterated U.S. support for Israel, emphasizing, “There is no equivalence—none—between Israel and Hamas.” The U.S., which is not a signatory to the ICC, remains steadfast in backing Israel’s security.
The ICC’s Allegations
The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas commander Mohammed Deif, citing alleged war crimes during the Israel-Gaza conflict. Netanyahu’s government condemned the decision, accusing the ICC of equating Israel’s actions with those of Hamas. Gallant labeled the charges “absurd,” claiming they “legitimize the murder of babies and the abduction of the elderly.”
A Controversial Divide
The ICC’s decision has deepened international divisions over accountability in the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Netanyahu’s potential travels could test diplomatic relationships as nations grapple with their obligations under international law and political sensitivities surrounding Israel.