Wed Nov 27 19:50:00 UTC 2024: ## France Affirms Netanyahu’s Immunity from ICC Arrest Warrant

**Paris, November 28, 2024** – France has confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu benefits from immunity from prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC), despite the ICC issuing an arrest warrant earlier this month. The French foreign ministry stated that this immunity applies because Israel is not a member state of the ICC. While affirming its commitment to international justice, France emphasized its obligation to respect the immunity granted to non-member states under international law.

The statement follows an ICC warrant for Netanyahu, former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. While EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has declared the warrants binding, France has adopted a more cautious approach. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, while underscoring France’s dedication to international justice, acknowledged the complexities of immunity for certain leaders, leaving the final decision to judicial authorities. Reports suggest Netanyahu directly raised concerns about the warrant with President Emmanuel Macron.

This clarification comes amidst a broader context: France played a key role in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, a development hailed by Barrot as a significant achievement. The ceasefire agreement involves the Israeli army’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days, to be replaced by a strengthened Lebanese army presence. France has pledged its full support to this transition.

Read More