The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif. The ICC accuses Netanyahu and Gallant of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict from October 8, 2023, to May 20, 2024. Mohammed Deif faces similar charges for actions in Israel and Palestine starting October 7, 2023.

France has expressed its support for the ICC’s actions, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators of serious crimes accountable. French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christophe Lemoine called the Court a “guarantee of international stability” but refrained from confirming whether France would arrest Netanyahu if he entered the country. Lemoine also voiced concerns over the destruction of cultural heritage in Gaza and Lebanon during the conflicts.

Norway echoed these sentiments, with Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide highlighting the ICC’s critical role in ensuring justice for serious crimes. Eide emphasized the importance of the Court maintaining the highest standards of fairness and impartiality as it proceeds with the case. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the ICC’s efforts in combating impunity.