Canada has announced its decision to align with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stating that Canada would “abide” by international law. The move follows the UK’s stance, indicating Netanyahu could face arrest if he visits Britain.
Speaking on Friday, Trudeau affirmed Canada’s commitment to international justice, saying, “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.”
The ICC recently issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, alleging “crimes against humanity” committed during the Israel-Hamas war that began after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. A similar warrant was also issued for Hamas’s military chief, Mohammed Deif.
UK’s Position
The UK has expressed its intention to comply with its legal obligations. A spokesman for Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, “The UK will always comply with its legal obligations as set out by domestic law and indeed international law.” However, he refrained from commenting specifically on Netanyahu’s potential arrest, citing the hypothetical nature of the situation.
Global Reactions
Several nations, including Belgium, France, Sweden, Norway, and Turkey, have indicated support for the ICC’s decision. However, the United States, another key Five Eyes ally, has condemned the move. President Joe Biden criticized the warrants as “outrageous,” emphasizing that there is “no equivalence” between Israel and Hamas. He reiterated the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel, stating, “We will always stand with Israel against threats to its security.”
In contrast, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders supported the ICC’s action, highlighting the need for accountability. “All launched indiscriminate attacks against civilians and caused unimaginable human suffering,” Sanders said, adding, “If the world does not uphold international law, we will descend into further barbarism.”
Broader Implications
Both Canada and the UK are members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which also includes Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Their decision to abide by the ICC’s ruling underscores a divide among international allies on addressing allegations of war crimes amidst ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the diplomatic and legal ramifications of the Israel-Hamas conflict, as nations grapple with balancing commitments to international law with geopolitical alliances.
Sources By Agencies
