France to Maintain Close Ties with Netanyahu Despite ICC Arrest Warrant

France affirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu despite the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing an arrest warrant for him last week, The Associated Press reports.

The warrant, also targeting Netanyahu’s former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief, alleges crimes against humanity related to the 13-month Gaza conflict.

While French officials initially offered vague responses regarding Netanyahu’s potential arrest should he visit France, the Foreign Ministry issued a statement Wednesday clarifying its position. The ministry emphasized its commitment to upholding international law, stating that it would “rigorously” respect its obligations. However, it added that Netanyahu and the others implicated likely benefit from immunity due to Israel’s non-membership in the ICC. The ministry stated that this immunity would be considered should the ICC request their arrest and extradition.

The statement further highlighted the “historic friendship” between France and Israel, describing both nations as “two democracies committed to the rule of law and respect for professional and independent justice.” France reiterated its intention to continue working closely with Netanyahu and other Israeli authorities “to achieve peace and security for all in the Middle East.”

This position has drawn criticism from Amnesty International, which labeled France’s stance “deeply problematic.” The organization urged France to explicitly state that any individual subject to an ICC warrant would be arrested and surrendered to the court if found within French jurisdiction. Amnesty emphasized the fundamental ICC principle that “no one is above the law, including heads of state sought for arrest.”