Several Western nations have indicated their willingness to comply with International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell reiterated that the warrants are non-political and urged all EU member states to honour their commitments under the Rome Statute, to which all EU countries are signatories.
Countries such as the Netherlands, Switzerland, Ireland, Italy, and Spain confirmed their readiness to fulfill obligations under international law and the ICC treaty. Austria also expressed intent to comply, though its Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg criticized the warrant as "absurd."
France stated that its response to the warrants would align with ICC statutes but declined to confirm whether it would arrest Netanyahu, citing legal complexities involved in implementing such actions.
A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the UK respects the ICC’s independence but did not clarify whether Britain would uphold the warrants.
Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide affirmed confidence in the ICC's adherence to fair trial standards, stating, "It is important that the ICC carries out its mandate in a judicious manner."
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard emphasized the EU’s support for the ICC’s independence and integrity. She clarified that Swedish law enforcement authorities would decide on the arrest of ICC warrant subjects present on Swedish territory.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed full support for the ICC’s actions, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to international law. He stated, “It’s really important that everyone abide by international law. This is something we’ve been calling for since the beginning of the conflict.”
Turkey, though not an western allies, welcomed the warrants as a pivotal step toward accountability. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called the move "hopeful" and pledged to support efforts to ensure justice for alleged genocide against Palestinians.
