Germany has suggested it will not arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he travels to the country, citing its Nazi history. The announcement comes after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
A spokesman for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said it would be difficult to imagine such an arrest being carried out in Germany due to the country’s “unique relationship” with Israel. The German government stated it has “taken note” of the ICC’s decision, but added that “it is a consequence of German history that we share unique relations and great responsibility with Israel.”
The ICC warrant has divided European nations, with some vowing to comply while others, like Hungary, have outright rejected it. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has invited Netanyahu for an official state visit, saying he will “guarantee his freedom and safety.”
In contrast, Italy and the Netherlands have indicated they would be obliged to arrest Netanyahu as ICC members. However, Germany appears set to defy the warrant, with the spokesman saying any further action would only be taken if a visit by Netanyahu is “foreseeable.”
Netanyahu has condemned the ICC’s decision as “anti-Semitic” and motivated by “hate.” The Israeli leader has found support from allies like the United States, but faces a growing rift with fellow European nations over the issue.
The dispute highlights the delicate balance Germany must strike between its commitment to international law and its historical relationship with Israel. As the ICC warrant tests European unity, Germany’s stance could have significant diplomatic implications.
