Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took
an unusual flight route to the United States, deliberately bypassing countries
that could potentially enforce the International Criminal Court (ICC)
arrest warrant against him.
Although France had approved Israeli use of its
airspace, flight-tracking data revealed Netanyahu’s plane opted for a
southern detour. The aircraft traveled through Greece and Italy, then
turned southward via the Strait of Gibraltar before crossing the
Atlantic Ocean.
Political Context: Palestinian State
Recognition
The move comes in the same week that Britain,
France, and Portugal officially recognized a Palestinian state,
joining Ireland and Spain, which made similar announcements in May.
Netanyahu has been a vocal opponent of these recognitions, calling them a blow
to Israel’s security and diplomacy.
ICC Warrants and Legal Concerns
Israeli media reported that the detour was intended to
avoid Rome Statute signatory nations that could enforce the ICC’s arrest
warrant in case of an emergency landing.
The ICC issued arrest warrants in November for both Netanyahu
and his former defense minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of alleged war
crimes during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
Last week, Spain not only endorsed the ICC
investigation but also launched a domestic probe into possible human rights
violations in Gaza, intensifying international pressure on Israel.
Upcoming Engagements
Netanyahu is expected to address the UN General
Assembly on Friday in New York. He is also scheduled to meet U.S.
President Donald Trump at the White House next week as part of his
diplomatic engagements.
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