France and Norway have expressed their support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif.
The ICC has charged Netanyahu and Gallant with committing crimes against humanity and war crimes during the conflict between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024. Mohammed Deif faces similar charges for acts in Israel and Palestine starting October 7, 2023, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Christophe Lemoine, spokesperson for France’s Foreign Ministry, emphasised the ICC’s role as a “guarantee of international stability” during an online press conference. He reiterated France’s commitment to combating impunity, stating, “The fight against impunity is our priority.” When questioned about the possibility of Netanyahu’s arrest if he visited France, Lemoine called the situation “legally complex” and refrained from providing a direct response.
Lemoine also expressed France’s concern over the destruction of cultural heritage in Gaza and Lebanon, citing extensive damage caused by Israeli actions.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide also voiced strong support for the ICC’s mandate, highlighting its importance in ensuring accountability for serious crimes. “The ICC must proceed with its case based on the highest fair trial standards,” he said.
The international backing for the ICC marks a significant step in addressing accountability during the prolonged Israel-Palestine conflict.
