G7 Nations Address ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
Group of Seven commits to international obligations amid ICC arrest warrant for Israeli PM
During a meeting in Fiuggi, Italy, the foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) nations—comprising Britain, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Italy, and the United States—stated their commitment to adhere to international obligations regarding an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The ICC issued the warrant last week, citing charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes allegedly committed between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024.
Netanyahu's arrest warrant has sparked controversy, particularly among Israel and its allies, including the US, which is not an ICC member and disputes its jurisdiction.
All other G7 countries are ICC members, thus required to act on the warrant if Netanyahu visits.
The ICC also issued warrants for Netanyahu's former defense minister and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif.
The G7 ministers emphasized their dedication to international humanitarian law and distinguished between the actions of Israel and the terrorist group Hamas.
The discussions, which followed on the heels of ongoing conflict in Gaza, were described as broader and strategic by a diplomatic source.
The conflict was ignited by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
Italy advocated for the G7 discussion due to internal government debates on the issue.