France says immunity rules apply to Benjamin Netanyahu in relation to ICC warrant

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is covered by immunity rules that apply to states that are not party to the International Criminal Court, the French foreign ministry said Wednesday.

In a statement regarding the ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu, the foreign ministry said France would uphold its international obligations, including cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC), but such cooperation “cannot be required to act in a manner incompatible with its obligations under international law with regard to the immunities of States not party to the ICC.”

The ministry further noted: “Such immunities apply to Prime Minister Netanyahu and other relevant ministers and will be taken into consideration.”

Despite repeating it will implement its obligations under international law, France has not clarified whether it would arrest Netanyahu if he travels to the country.

Remember: The foreign ministry statement comes on the day a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered by France and the United States, takes effect.

The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes over the war in Gaza. A Hamas commander believed killed in an Israeli air strike was also indicted.

The court said it had “reasonable grounds” to believe Netanyahu bears criminal responsibility for war crimes.