UK Criticizes ICC's Arrest Warrant Request for Israeli PM Netanyahu
The UK criticized the ICC's decision to request an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, calling it unhelpful for peace efforts and questioning the court's jurisdiction. The UK does not recognize Palestine as a state, and Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute.
The decision by the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor to request an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been criticized by the UK government.
ICC prosecutor Karim Khan, after over seven months of war in Gaza, stated he had reasonable grounds to believe Netanyahu, his defense chief, and three Hamas leaders bear criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes.
A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the ICC action unhelpful for reaching a pause in the fighting, releasing hostages, or delivering humanitarian aid.
The spokesperson also argued that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, as the UK does not recognize Palestine as a state and Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute.
British Deputy Foreign Minister Andrew Mitchell confirmed that the ICC's decision would not affect the UK's licensing for arms sales to Israel, but developments would continue to be monitored.