France and Norway have expressed their support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) following the issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif.
The ICC's pre-trial chamber has accused Netanyahu and Gallant of committing "crimes against humanity and war crimes" between October 8, 2023, and May 20, 2024. Deif has been charged with similar crimes in Israel and Palestine from at least October 7, 2023.
French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine emphasised that the ICC is vital for ensuring international stability and upholding accountability in all situations.
He stressed France’s priority in fighting impunity, adding that the country will continue supporting the ICC's actions. However, when asked about the possibility of Netanyahu's arrest if he were to visit France, Lemoine refrained from providing a definitive answer, citing the legal complexity of the matter.
Lemoine also expressed France's concern over the destruction of cultural heritage sites in Gaza and Lebanon, which have been damaged during the ongoing conflicts with Israel. This highlights the broader international concern regarding the impact of the war on cultural properties in conflict zones.
Similarly, Norway has voiced strong support for the ICC’s efforts.
Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated that the ICC plays a key role in ensuring accountability for grave crimes and underscored the importance of the Court carrying out its mandate with fairness and in accordance with international trial standards.
Norway also trusts that the ICC will proceed judiciously with the case to ensure justice.
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