The British government stated this Saturday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could face arrest if he visits the UK, confirming that it would fulfill its obligations as a signatory to the Rome Statute. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified that under the International Criminal Court (ICC) Act of 2001, if the ICC issues an arrest warrant, a UK minister must pass the request to a judicial officer, who would then approve the warrant for execution within the UK.
However, when asked whether this meant Netanyahu would be arrested upon entering the UK, the spokesperson refrained from commenting on the matter, referring to it as a “hypothetical” situation.
This announcement came the same day that German officials indicated they would not arrest Netanyahu should he travel to Germany, citing the country’s historical context. Government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said, “I find it difficult to imagine that arrests would be carried out in Germany on this basis.” He added that any action would be considered only if Netanyahu, along with former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, planned a visit to Germany, with further steps taken only after careful review.
Other countries may join UK soon!
The situation arises amid the ICC’s recent issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli leaders over alleged war crimes in Gaza. While several NATO members, including the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, and Canada, have indicated they would enforce the warrants, the US has strongly opposed the ICC’s actions. US officials have warned that nations enforcing the warrants could face sanctions or other retaliatory measures.
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of President-elect Donald Trump, issued a stern warning to US allies, stating, “If Canada, Britain, Germany, or France support the ICC, we’ll crush your economy, because we’re next.” Similarly, Mike Waltz, an incoming national security adviser to Trump, vowed a “strong response” to the ICC in January. Additionally, some US lawmakers are calling for sanctions against Karim Khan, the ICC’s chief prosecutor.
In Israel, officials are concerned that more arrest warrants could be issued against senior military figures, particularly army chief Herzi Halevi, in connection with the conflict in Gaza. Reports suggest that Israel is worried foreign governments could begin restricting or suspending arms deals as a result.
In response, the Israeli cabinet convened on Friday to discuss how to counter the ICC’s investigation, considering strategies to challenge the court’s jurisdiction and obstruct its progress. Israeli media reported that officials are hoping the US will take a more aggressive stance against the ICC’s actions.
