Mapping State Reactions to the ICC Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant

Editor’s Note: This article is part of our ongoing symposium on the ICC and the Israel-Hamas war. This article and the interactive map were first published on Nov. 22 and have been updated since.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced it had issued arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, and Yoav Gallant, the former defense minister, in connection with alleged crimes committed in the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Hamas. In doing so, the Court rejected as premature Israel’s challenge to the Court’s jurisdiction.  The Court’s decision to issue a warrant for the sitting Prime Minister of a state, which is notably not a party to the Rome Statute, also demonstrates the Court’s embrace of its prior controversial decision on immunity, namely that customary international law does not provide immunity for heads of state from criminal prosecution in international criminal courts, or at least not before the International Criminal Court. This position could be a source of tension for those states that support a customary international law rule providing head of state immunity before international tribunals, but are also bound by treaty to comply with the Court’s warrants and requests for arrest. 

States have now provided a range of reactions to the ICC’s decision, which can shed light on their views regarding these and other legal controversies as well as on the Court’s legitimacy and standing in the world. Some include political support or political pushback, and some include statements regarding their own intent to comply with the arrest warrants. The latter may be relevant to ongoing consideration of customary international law governing immunity. Thus far, however, states generally have refrained from opining directly on the immunity issue as such. Inferring a state’s views on immunity is complicated further still by statements that do not distinguish between a sitting head of state and a (former) defense minister.  Several states have signaled their intent to comply with the arrest warrants or even called on others to do the same.  Other states have remained circumspect about their intent to do so.

We have begun the project of collecting, analyzing, and categorizing official statements in response to the ICC’s announcement, which we consolidate below and will continue to update. If we have missed anything, please send us an email at lte@justsecurity.org. For mapping purposes, we have used the following categories of statement:

1. Political support and support for compliance
2. Compliance alone 
3. Political support alone
4. Non-committal
5. Critique on policy grounds 
6. Critique on only legal grounds and/or suggest non-compliance
7. Critique on both policy and legal grounds and/or suggest non-compliance

This project is inspired by a similar mapping exercise that I undertook alongside Alonso Gurmendi Dunkelberg, Priya Pillai, and Elvina Pothelet, on U.S. strikes in Syria in 2018.  As we highlighted then, States vary greatly in the language they deploy to respond to such events, and many statements include a fair amount of nuance that may require some parsing in order to classify into neat groups like the above.  Complicating matters further, there are often statements from multiple actors within the state that may add color to the formal positions coming out of foreign ministries, or which may alternatively reflect non-cleared views.  There will be some statements on which reasonable minds may differ regarding how to classify.  For example, Germany’s spokesperson issued a formal statement foregoing a decision on compliance until a “foreseeable” visit would bring the matter to a head, but then added color to that formal statement of non-commitment by saying, “I find it hard to imagine that we would make arrests on this basis.”  We thus moved Germany to category E due to the suggestion of non-compliance.  Similarly complex: Italy’s foreign minister issued a carefully worded non-committal and pledge to “evaluate” with allies the decision and how to respond, but the defense minister stated that Italy would “have to” carry out the arrests.   In cases of conflicting statements within the state, we have classified the state according to the formal statement issued by the foreign ministry, but have included additional statements that provide readers with a more nuanced account.

For their extraordinary efforts in this process, I am grateful to Clara Apt, Audrey Baillette, Isaac Buck, Charlotte Kahan, and Maya Nir for canvassing official statements and to Pooja Shah for creating the interactive map.

Update: Several states’ public positions have evolved since we first started classifying them, and some have shifted categories. For example, Germany has shifted its position–toward compliance–and France has raised head of state immunity as a possible barrier to suit, at least with respect to a sitting Prime Minister. We have updated the table and map accordingly.

Last Updated on: 12/10/2024 12:15 AM ET

A. Political support and support for compliance

1. Algeria

• Individual: People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria; Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “Algeria warmly welcomes the issuance of two arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court against officials in the Zionist entity on charges of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip.
  This measure, which Algeria has been demanding through the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, represents an important step and tangible progress towards ending decades of immunity and the escape of the Israeli occupier from accountability, prosecution and punishment as it commits crimes against the Palestinian people and all countries and peoples of the region.
  In order to ensure justice and protection for the Palestinian people, Algeria calls on members of the international community, especially the member states of the International Criminal Court, to take the necessary measures to implement the two arrest warrants and enable international justice to take its course.”” ** Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No (Signatory, but not State party)

2. Bangladesh

• Individual: Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh
• Statement: “The ICC has an essential role to play in investigating and addressing potential war crimes and crimes against humanity by the Israeli occupation forces in [‘Gaza, the broader Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Lebanon’]. Recently, the International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion that Israel’s 57-year occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory remains illegal. In this context, Bangladesh welcomes the issuance of arrest warrants against key individuals, including the Israeli Prime Minister and the former Defense Minister, for their involvement.” Link
• Date: 12/2
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

3. Belgium

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “The fight against impunity wherever crimes are committed is a priority for Belgium, which fully supports the work of the @IntlCrimCourt. Those responsible for crimes committed in #Israel and #Gaza must be prosecuted at the highest level, regardless of who committed them.” Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

4. Chile

• Individual: Statement of the Foreign Ministry
• Statement: “Chile makes an urgent call to the parties in conflict to put an end to the very serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights committed against civilians, which have particularly affected the Palestinian population in Gaza, especially women and innocent girls and boys.”
  “The Government of Chile supports the work carried out by the International Criminal Court and hopes that all States will collaborate with its investigation and decisions, which are mandatory, so that these serious crimes do not go unpunished.” * Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

5. Colombia

• Individual: The Colombian Foreign Ministry
• Statement: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Government of Colombia, expresses its recognition and compliance with the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel; Yoav Gallant, former Minister of Defense of Israel and against the leader of Hamas, Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza and the West Bank.
  Colombia reaffirms its commitment to peace, both within and outside its borders, and reiterates its position regarding what has been happening to the Palestinian people and the genocidal actions perpetrated by the Israeli government.
  As President Gustavo Petro stated, Colombia will always support efforts to achieve peace and reject any act of war.
  The Colombian government reiterates its firm belief in the principles of multilateralism and an international order based on international law. It therefore respects and will abide by the decisions issued by the ICC and other bodies responsible for dispensing justice at a global level.” ** Link

• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

6. Denmark

• Individual: Statement of the Foreign Ministry
• Statement: “Denmark is a firm supporter of the International Criminal Court and backs its independence. Denmark obviously complies with its international law obligations, and if there is suspicion of international crimes, it must be investigated and, if necessary, prosecuted.” * Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

7. Djibouti

• Individual: Ambassador of Djibouti in Belgium, H.E. Aden Mohamed Dileita
• Statement: “2024 also marks a historic breakthrough for justice with the issuance by the International Criminal Court of several arrest warrants, against the perpetrators who are behind atrocities and manifest violations of the most fundamental principles of international law. With overwhelming and gruesome evidence in Gaza, the Office of the Court has fulfilled its mandate under the Rome Statute to submit these requests for the issuance of arrest warrants for perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in the territory of the State of Palestine (in the Gaza Strip) as of October 8, 2023.
  Those responsible for these crimes, whether they committed, ordered or planned them, must be held accountable to the victims who are mainly children and women. This is why the Republic of Djibouti … fully welcomes this decision by the Office of the Prosecutor. Following the issuance of the said arrest warrants issued by the ICC, the Republic of Djibouti observes with concern the unease caused among several States Parties to the Rome Statute, yet bound by their international obligations. There can be no double standards in justice and in the execution of a judicial decision rendered by the Court.”* Link

• Date: 12/4
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

8. Indonesia

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia
• Statement: “Indonesia reiterates its support for all initiatives aimed at ensuring accountability for crimes committed by Israel in Palestine, including those pursued through the International Criminal Court (ICC).
  The issuance of arrest warrants by the ICC for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant represents a significant step towards achieving justice for the crimes against humanity and war crimes in Palestine.
  In this regard, Indonesia emphasizes that these arrest warrants must be carried out in full accordance with international law.
  Furthermore, Indonesia holds the view that such action is crucial to ending Israel’s unlawful occupation of Palestinian territories and advancing the establishment of an independent State of Palestine, in accordance with the principles of the Two-State Solution.” Link

• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

9. Ireland

• Individual: Prime Minister Simon Harris
• Statement: “These charges could not be more serious,” Prime Minister Simon Harris said in a statement. “The situation in Gaza could not be more desperate, is an affront to humanity and cannot be allowed to continue a moment longer.” “The Government has long expressed its profound concern about the conduct of the war in Gaza and has stated clearly its belief that the rules of international law and international humanitarian law have not been upheld,” he said. “[T]hose who commit war crimes and crimes against humanity, must be held fully to account.” He also stated anyone in a position to assist the court “must now do so with urgency.” Link, Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

10. Jordan

• Individual: Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Al-Safadi
• Statement: “As I said before, the tragedy in Gaza has to stop. Now, I will be very sober in my comment. It is not a political decision. It is a decision of a Court, of a Court of Justice, of the International Criminal Court. The decisions of the courts have to be respected and implemented. So, I take note of the decision of the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu, the former Minister of Defence Minister [Yoav] Gallant, and the Hamas’ leaders. This decision is a binding decision and all States, all States parties of the [Rome Statute of] Court, which include all members of the European Union, are bound to implement this court decision.” Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

11. Malaysia

• Individual: Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim
• Statement: “The International Criminal Court’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoavi Gallant marks a monumental victory for all who champion justice and humanity.” Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

12. Maldives

• Individual: President Mohamed Muizzu
• Statement: “The #Maldives welcomes the @IntlCrimCourt’s decisions today with regard to the situation in the State of Palestine. This is a crucial step towards ensuring accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
  The Maldives respects the decisions of the ICC and underscores the importance of honoring and implementing the Court’s rulings. Upholding international law and ensuring justice for the Palestinian people is essential to restoring peace in the region.” Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

13. Namibia

• Individual: Ministry of International Relations & Cooperation
• Statement: “Namibia welcomes the decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to formally issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Although this decision is somewhat belated, it is nevertheless a step in the right direction, demonstrating that the Palestinian people deserve justice, just like other people in any part of the world. Namibia also believes that the role of international relations in upholding justice and fairness is essential. When these institutions act impartially and without bias, they can provide a framework for accountability, protecting the human rights of all, including Palestinians, thereby strengthening peace and stability, not only in the Middle East but worldwide. This helps to ensure that justice is not only done but also seen to be done, thereby restoring trust and faith in the international system. These arrest warrants are not and should not be considered or interpreted as an indictment against Israel as a country but as an obligation to account for those responsible for the crimes committed. Namibia calls on UN member states to cooperate with the International Criminal Court and to assist the same international justice system created by the international community in bringing the perpetrators to justice and to answer for their crimes.” Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

14. Palestine

• Individual: Palestinian Authority Official Statement
• Statement: The Palestinian Authority said “[t]he ICC’s decision represents hope and confidence in international law and its institutions.” It urged ICC members to enforce “a policy of severing contact and meetings with internationally wanted individuals, Netanyahu and [Yoav] Gallant.” Link

• Dr. Riad Malki, Special Advisor to the President of the State of Palestine: “We welcome the issuance of the arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ex Minister of War Yoav Gallant and respect the independence and impartiality of the Court and its different organs to continue its investigation in the Situation in the State of Palestine, including on Israel’s settlement enterprise. We have extended our full cooperation to the Court including the OTP and spared no effort to help the investigation move forward and will continue to do so. In this connection, we remind States Parties of their legal obligations under the Rome Statute, and their commitment to protect and preserve the Court’s independence. The continued functioning of the Court depends on that. Let me put it plainly: States Parties are obliged to execute the arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant. No ifs. No buts. No exceptions.”* Link
• Date: 11/1, 12/2
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

15. South Africa

• Individual: South African Government Official Media Statement
• Statement: “The South African Government welcomes the ICC’s recent warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant, and Mohammed Deif of Hamas. These actions mark a significant step towards justice for crimes against humanity and war crimes in Palestine. South Africa reaffirms its commitment to international law and urges all state parties to act in accordance with their obligations in the Rome Statute. We call on the global community to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability for human rights violations.” Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

16. Tunisia

• Individual: Ambassador of Tunisia to The Netherlands, Skander Denguezli
• Statement: “The Tunisian Government welcomes the progress recorded in the investigations into the situation in countries affected by international crimes, notably the investigation into the situation in the State of Palestine which has been suffering for more than a year of genocide carried out by the Israeli occupying forces against the Palestinian civilian population, particularly women and children. On November 21, 2024, the Court reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of fundamental human rights and the promotion of peace and international security, by issuing arrest warrants against the perpetrators of the occupying entity, for crimes against humanity and war crimes. The Court has made it clear that today there will no longer be impunity for mass murderers. The Tunisian Republic reaffirms its commitment to the application of international law on an equal basis and welcomes the efforts of all States Parties which work to guarantee its application, in the interest of all.”* Link
• Date: 12/3
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

17. Turkey

• Individual: Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fida
• Statement: “The arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for Netanyahu and Gallant is hopeful in terms of justice being served. This decision is an extremely important step in bringing to justice the Israeli authorities who committed genocide against Palestinians. We will continue to work to ensure that international law, with all its institutions and rules, is put into practice to punish genocide. This is our obligation not only to the massacred Palestinians, but to all oppressed nations and future generations.” ** Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

B. Compliance alone

1. Canada

• Individual: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
• Statement: “First of all as Canada has always said it’s really important that everyone abide by international law. This is something we’ve been calling on from the beginning of the conflict. We are one of the founding members of the International Criminal Court…we stand up for international law and we will abide by all the regulations and rulings of the international courts. This is just who we are as Canadians. At the same time we need to keep working to solve this terrible situation. We need to see aid flowing in, to people who are facing famine and disease. We need to see all the hostages released, we need to see Hamas lay down its arms. We condemn Hamas for its continued actions. We need to see a ceasefire that protects civilians. We need to get back on track towards a two-state solution with a peaceful Israel living alongside a peaceful Palestinian State. These are the things that Canada has been working on and at the same time we have to recognize as Canadians that it’s been very very difficult for members of different communities in this country. We have to remember who we are, be there for each other, understand that people are angry and grieving but remember that we are all pushing for peace and stability as hard as we can.” Trudeau said. Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly echoed this sentiment: “We need accountability in our world, and so based on that, Canada will abide by its obligation under the ICC treaty,” Joly said. “We will abide by our treaty obligations because we believe in international accountability. We believe in the ICC. Now, I won’t give a hypothetical answer based on a hypothetical question, but my point is [that] Canada is a founding member, has signed the treaty, and therefore needs to follow its obligations.” Link, Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

2. Czech Republic

• Individual: Prime Minister Petr Fiala
• Statement: “Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said ‘the ICC’s unfortunate ruling undermines authority in other cases by equating the elected representatives of a democratic state with the leaders of an Islamist terrorist organization.’” Link
• Update: The Deputy Foreign Minister added: “The Czech Republic is a country that respects the rule of law. And if they were to arrive in the Czech Republic in this situation, then it would not be a political decision, but the authorities involved in criminal proceedings would be activated on the basis of this international arrest warrant– the police, the public prosecutor’s office– and they would act without any political interference. That is simply how we respect the rule of law and our international obligations…The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is completely outside of this.Within the separation of powers we have here, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and even the Ministry of Justice do not have the tools to influence the actions of the public prosecutor’s office and the police… Very hypothetically, just like if, say, Vladimir Putin came to visit us.” *** (translated subtitles) Link
• Date: 11/21, 11/25
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

3. Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Individual: Head of the Mission of the President of the Republic to the International Criminal court, Professor Taylor Lubanga
• Statement: “This year the assembly is faced with decisions including that relating to the investigations courageously opened by the prosecutor’s office for crimes allegedly committed in particular in Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Bangladesh and the decision of 15 October 2024 reactivating investigations in the Democratic Republic of Congo…it is prudent to support the efforts of the office in fulfilling the duties implied by these decisions. This means that the States Parties must provide the necessary support within the framework of active cooperation useful to the success of the operations undertaken by the investigators.”* Link
• Date: 12/2
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

4. Finland

• Individual: Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen
• Statement: “According to Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen (coordinator), Finland defends a system based on the basic principles of international law, complies with international law and supports international courts.
  ICC contracting states have an obligation to cooperate with the court based on the Rome Statute. This also includes the obligation to detain the subjects of arrest warrants if they travel to treaty countries, Valtonen commented to Yle by email.” per YLE * Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

5. Germany

• Individual: Spokesperson for the Federal Government, Steffen Hebestreit; Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock
• Statement: “The Federal Government was involved in drafting the ICC statute and is one of the ICC’s biggest supporters. This position is also the result of German history. At the same time, it is a consequence of German history that we share unique relations and great responsibility with Israel. We will carefully examine the domestic steps. Any further action would only be taken when a stay by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Galant in Germany is foreseeable.” * Hebestreit is further quoted as saying, “I find it hard to imagine that we would make arrests on this basis.” Link, link
• Update: The Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock later stated: “Germany abides by national, European, and international law. Whether the Israeli Prime Minister will enter the European Union is a hypothetical question, but we are now examining that in detail.” And: “The federal government abides by the law because no one is above the law. The independence of the judiciary applies, which in this case has concluded that there is enough evidence to take this step now.” ** Link
• Date: 11/22, 11/25
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

6. Iceland

• Individual: Foreign Minister, Þórdís Kolbrún R. Gylfadóttir
• Statement: “The Icelandic authorities will honour the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court in The Hague. We put our faith in international courts following international law and respect the court’s rulings regardless of the individuals in question.” * Link
• Date: November 11/23
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

7. Liechtenstein

• Individual: Permanent Mission of Liechtenstein to the UN
• Statement: “LI is a long-standing and consistent supporter of the #ICC and the independence and integrity of its work. It is committed to fulfil its cooperation obligations under the Rome Statute. LI will continue standing up together with like-minded States to defend @IntlCrimCourt from political attacks and against efforts to undermine its independence.” Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

8. Lithuania

• Individual: Foreign Ministry comment to the Baltic News Service
• Statement: “The Court’s decisions are binding on member states. Once the court issues an arrest warrant, its execution is binding in all state parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC or those states or territories that accept the ICC’s jurisdiction,” the ministry said in a commentary forwarded to BNS on Thursday. Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

9. Luxembourg

• Individual: Luxembourg Government
• Statement: “For all intents and purposes, the Luxembourg government stated yesterday to @Letzland that Luxembourg ‘attaches paramount importance to respecting the independence and impartiality of the ICC, and will implement all of its obligations arising from the Rome Statute.’” ** Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

10. Malta

• Individual: Deputy Permanent Representative & Political Coordinator for Malta’s mission to the United Nations, Darren Camilleri
• Statement: “Following the developments of recent days, as a firm and committed supporter of the ICC, Malta will abide by its obligations as a party to the Rome statute.” Link
• Date: 11/ 25
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

11. Netherlands

• Individual: Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp
• Statement: “Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp said that his country ‘respects the independence of the ICC.’ ‘We won’t engage in non-essential contacts and we will act on the arrest warrants. We fully comply with the Rome Statute of the ICC,’ he added.” Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

12. New Zealand

• Individual: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon
• Statement: “At a press conference, in response to a reporter asking “If either [Benjamin Netanyahu or Yoav Gallant] came to New Zealand, would we enforce those warrants?” Prime Minister Luxon responded “Yes, we support the ICC. As I’ve said to you all along, those are matters before the Court, but we believe in the international rules-based system, we support the ICC, and we’d be obligated to do so.”* Link
• Date: 12/1
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

13. Norway

• Individual: Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide
• Statement: “The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants against Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, Benyamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant. The ICC plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability for serious crimes,’ said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide. “It is important that the ICC carries out its mandate in a judicious manner. I have confidence that the Court will proceed with the case based on the highest fair trial standards.” Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

14. Portugal

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “The Minister of Foreign Affairs guaranteed this Friday that Portugal will comply with its ‘international obligations’ if it imposes itself regarding the application of arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC), particularly against the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
  In the press conference after the meeting of the Council of Ministers, which took place at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Lisbon, Paulo Rangel reaffirmed the position conveyed in May about Portugal being “bound” to the decisions of that international court as its Member State.
  In any case, Paulo Rangel did not fail to express Portugal’s position regarding the fact that the ICC did not distinguish between Israel and Hamas. ‘We consider that having an equivalence between Hamas and Israel is inappropriate, but we respect the court’s decision and will fulfill our obligations,’ he highlighted.” * Link

• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

15. Slovenia

• Individual: Prime Minister, Robert Golob
• Statement: “Slovenia respects the decision of the ICC regarding arrest warrants for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity and will fully comply with it.” Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

16. Spain

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs to El Día
• Statement: “España respeta la decisión de la Corte Penal Internacional y cumplirá con sus compromisos y obligaciones en relación al Estatuto de Roma y el Derecho Internacional”, aseguran a este diario fuentes oficiales del Ministerio de Exteriores. “Spain respects the decision of the International Criminal Court and will comply with its commitments and obligations in relation to the Rome Statute and international law,” official sources from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured this newspaper. * Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

17. Switzerland

• Individual: Swiss Federal Office of Justice
• Statement: “The Swiss Federal Office of Justice said it is obliged to cooperate with the ICC under the Rome Statute and would therefore have to arrest Netanyahu, Gallant or Masri if they entered Switzerland and initiate extradition to the court.” Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

18. United Kingdom

• Individual: Prime Minister Keir Starmer; Foreign Secretary David Lammy
• Statement: “We respect the independence of the ICC, which is the primary institutional institution for investigating and prosecuting the most serious crimes in relation to international law. This Government has been clear that Israel has a right to defend itself in accordance with international law. There is no moral equivalence between Israel, a democracy and Hamas and Lebanese Hezbollah, which are terror groups. We remain focused on pushing for an immediate ceasefire to bring an end to the devastating violence in Gaza.”
• Sir Keir’s spokesman said: “We never comment on future international visits but my position on the Prime Minister’s support for Israel in terms of its right to defend itself in accordance with international law is very clear.” The spokesman repeatedly declined to “go into hypotheticals” about whether Mr Netanyahu would be arrested if he arrived in the UK. He added: “It’s not up to the Prime Minister to determine other world leaders’ travel schedules. He engages and will continue to engage with the prime minister of Israel in support of Israel’s right to defend itself.” Pressed on what he meant by his comments about the court, the spokesman said: “It means that we respect the independence of the ICC. We respect the fact that the ICC is the primary international institution for investigating and prosecuting the most serious crimes of international concern.” The spokesman went on to say the Government’s “focus” remained an end to the violence in the Middle East, which has been ongoing for more than a year after the Oct 7 terror attacks by Hamas. On being asked about the US describing the ICC as a “kangaroo court”, the spokesman replied: “We respect the independence of the ICC.”
• Updated: In a later interview, the Foreign Secretary stated the following: “We have always been committed to our obligations under international law and international humanitarian law, of course. If there were to be such a visit to the UK there would be a court process and due process would be followed in relation to those issues.” Link, Link
• Date: 11/21, 11/25
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

C. Political support alone

1. Cuba

• Individual: Anayansi Rodríguez Camejo, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba
• Statement: ““The ICC on Thursday issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in the Gaza Strip.
  The genocide must stop” ** Link
  Quote tweeted by Cuban Foreign Ministry: “”#CubaConPalestina #Free Palestine”” Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

D. Non-committal

1. Australia

• Individual: Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong
• Statement: “Australia respects the independence of the ICC and its important role in upholding international law.
  Australia is focused on working with countries that want peace to press for an urgently needed ceasefire.” Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

2. China

• Individual: Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, Lin Jian
• Statement: “China hopes the ICC will uphold an objective and just position (and) exercise its powers in accordance with the law.” Link
• Date: 11/ 22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

3. Estonia

• Individual: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna
• Statement: “#Estonia takes note of the arrest warrants of the @IntlCrimCourt which 🇪🇪 is a state party to.
  Upholding the international order based on international law and rules is important to us.
  At the same time, we are sceptical they’ll contribute to a lasting peace in the Middle East.” [sic] Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

4. Italy

• Individual: Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani
• Statement: “We support the ICC, while always remembering that the court must play a legal role and not a political role. We will evaluate together with our allies what to do and how to interpret this decision,” Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. // “Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto told Italian broadcaster RAI that Italy would ‘have to arrest’ Netanyahu and Gallant given the ICC’s warrants, but he said that it was ‘wrong’ to put the two Israeli officials on the same level as Hamas.” Link, Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

5. Latvia

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “Latvia believes that it is important to respect the international order, which is based on international law and regulations. Latvia respects the court’s decisions. This will also apply to this decision.” Link
• Date: 11/23
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

6. Sweden

• Individual: Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard
• Statement: “Sweden and the EU support the important work of the court and safeguard its independence and integrity,” Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said. Link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

E. Critique on policy grounds

1. Argentina

• Individual: President Javier Milei
• Statement: Declaration of the Argentine Republic in defense of Israel: “The Argentine Republic expresses its deep disagreement with the recent decision of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to issue arrest warrants against the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the former Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant. This resolution ignores Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself against constant attacks by terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel faces brutal aggression, inhumane hostage-taking, and indiscriminate attacks against its population. Criminalizing the legitimate defense of a nation while omitting these atrocities is an act that distorts the spirit of international justice. Argentina stands in solidarity with Israel, reaffirms its right to protect its people and demands the immediate release of all hostages. We call on the international community to condemn the actions of Hamas and Hezbollah, defend Israel’s sovereignty, and act with justice and impartiality in the pursuit of lasting peace in the region.” ** Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

2. Bulgaria

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “‘Without commenting on the merits of the acts issued by the international court, we want to point out that the arrest warrants do not distinguish the responsibility for the unprecedented terrorist attack by Hamas against the State of Israel on October 7, and the legitimate actions for self-defence by Israel in response to the attack,’ the position says.
  ‘Bulgaria supports the independence, integrity and objectivity of the International Criminal Court in its responsible position to prosecute the gravest crimes under international law, and has been consistently opposed to attempts at its use for political purposes,’ the position says.
  It adds that ‘the only possible decision for establishing lasting and sustainable peace in the Middle East is by opening up a political horizon for the peace process and such arrest warrants are not conducive to that. Bulgaria will continue to support the efforts towards a cease-fire and releasing the hostages.’” Link

• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

3. Romania

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania
• Statement: “In the current context in the Middle East when all efforts need to be centered on finding political solutions, any initiative should aim at reaching a ceasefire, releasing all hostages and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law is equally important. Romania supports the international law and international humanitarian law and reiterates its principled position on the independence of the ICC. At the same time we consider that there is no equivalence between Israel, a democracy, and the terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah.” Link
• Date: 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

4. United States

• Individual: White House National Security Council Spokesperson, US President Joe Biden
• Statement: “The United States fundamentally rejects the Court’s decision to issue arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials. We remain deeply concerned by the Prosecutor’s rush to seek arrest warrants and the troubling process errors that led to this decision,” White House National Security Council Spokesperson. “The ICC issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli leaders is outrageous. Let me be clear once again: whatever the ICC might imply, there is no equivalence — none — between Israel and Hamas. We will always stand with Israel against threats to its security.” Statement from U.S. President Joe Biden. Link, link
• Date: 11/ 21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

F. Critique on legal grounds and/or suggestion of non-compliance

1. France

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Statement: “France will respect its international obligations, on the understanding that the Rome Statute requires full cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC) and also provides that a State cannot be required to act in a manner inconsistent with its obligations under international law with respect to the immunities of States not party to the ICC. Such immunities apply to Prime Minister Netanyahu and other relevant ministers and will need to be taken into consideration should the ICC request their arrest and surrender. In accordance with the historic friendship that binds France to Israel, two democracies committed to the rule of law and respect for a professional and independent justice system, France intends to continue to work closely with Prime Minister Netanyahu and the other Israeli authorities to achieve peace and security for all in the Middle East.” * Link
• Date: 11/ 27
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

G. Critique on policy and legal grounds and/or suggestion of non-compliance

1. Austria

• Individual: Foreign Minister, Alexander Schallenberg
• Statement: “The International Criminal Court’s (ICC) decision to issue arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Gallant is utterly incomprehensible. It is absurd to create an equivalence between members of a democratically elected government and the leader of a terrorist organisation. International law is non-negotiable and applies everywhere, at all times. This includes the fight against Hamas terror. However, we must never forget that the conflict in Gaza is highly asymmetrical: On one side is Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East, and on the other is a terrorist organisation whose explicit aim is the destruction of the State of Israel. With all due respect for the independence of the International Criminal Court, this decision undermines international law and is a disservice to the Court’s credibility.” Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

2. Hungary

• Individual: Hungary’s foreign minister Peter Szijjártó, and Prime Minister Orban
• Statement: “Hungary’s foreign minister Peter Szijjártó blasts the ICC’s ‘shameful and absurd’ decision to issue arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant. ‘This decision disgraces the international judiciary by equating leaders of a country attacked by a heinous terror attack with the leaders of the terrorist organization responsible,’ he says in a call with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, according to a Hungarian readout.” Orban on X: “The #ICC arrest warrant against Prime Minister @netanyahu is brazen, cynical and completely unacceptable. I invited Prime Minister Netanyahu for an official visit to Hungary, where we will guarantee his freedom and safety.” Link, link
• Date: 11/21, 11/22
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

3. Israel

• Individual: Prime Minister Benjamin Netayahu, Office of PM
• Statement: “Israel rejects with disgust the absurd and false actions leveled against it by ICC,” compared to “the modern-day Dreyfus trial – and it will end in the same way,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netayahu’s office. “No war is more just than the war Israel has been waging in Gaza since October 7th 2023, when the Hamas terrorist organization launched a murderous assault and perpetrated the largest massacre against the Jewish People since the Holocaust,” the statement continued. “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not give in to pressure. He will continue to pursue all the objectives that Israel set out to achieve in its just war against Hamas and the Iranian axis of terror,” it read. Prime Minister Benjamin Netayahu’s office.
• Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara: “The International Criminal Court’s decision is baseless, regrettable, and fundamentally legally flawed. On this day, it must be stated clearly – the International Criminal Court lacks any jurisdiction in this matter.”
• Link, link, Link
• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: No

4. Paraguay

• Individual: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (tweet)
• Statement: “The Government of the Republic of Paraguay regrets the decision of the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants against the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the former Minister of Defense, Yoav Gallant. This decision violates Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself.
  Paraguay strongly rejects the political exploitation of international law and considers that this decision compromises the legitimacy of the Court, in addition to weakening efforts for peace, security and stability in the Middle East.” ** Link

• Date: 11/21
• State Party to the Rome Statute: Yes

Key:
* indicates source was translated to English with Google Translate
** indicates source was translated to English with X’s Translate function

Editor’s note: Readers may also be interested in Tom Dannenbaum, Nuts & Bolts of the International Criminal Court Arrest Warrants in the ‘Situation in Palestine’ (Nov. 22, 2024)

IMAGE: The building of the International Criminal Court in The Hague.