G7 leaders face dilemma over ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu

The leaders of the G7 countries are grappling with a complex decision: whether to enforce the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or maintain cooperation with him in hopes of advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.

According to Il Messaggero, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, along with deteriorating relations with Iran, have pushed Western states toward seeking a compromise, per Caliber.Az.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stressed that international obligations must be balanced with pragmatism. "Netanyahu's arrest will not bring us closer to peace," Tajani said, indicating that the Italian government is inclined to suspend the warrant as long as hostilities continue temporarily.

The G7 countries appear divided on the issue. The US, which does not recognise the ICC's jurisdiction, has refrained from participating in the debate, while the UK has taken a stricter stance, declaring its readiness to comply with the warrant, even if it means arresting Netanyahu. However, this approach could complicate efforts to secure a regional ceasefire.

Behind the scenes, Italy has proposed a "dual track" approach, suggesting that while the court's ruling be respected, diplomatic efforts should take priority. Tajani indicated that Italy would push for conditions that allow Netanyahu to continue participating in peace talks without facing arrest, possibly through measures such as granting immunity or limiting visits to Europe.

In Lithuania, however, the situation is clearer. The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Netanyahu could be detained there under the ICC warrant. As a signatory to the Rome Statute, Lithuania is obligated to execute the arrest warrant. The Ministry stated, "Lithuanian institutions, as they belong to the system of the rule of law, do not question court judgements and execute them," reaffirming the country’s consistent support for the ICC's independence and impartiality.

On November 21, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing "war crimes and crimes against humanity" committed in Gaza. These charges are related to allegations of using starvation as a method of warfare, as well as committing murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024. The ICC also issued a warrant for Mohammed al-Deif, a Hamas leader responsible for Gaza's tunnel network, who was reportedly killed by the Israeli military in August.

By Tamilla Hasanova