Netanyahu’s US Flight Avoids Most European Airspace Over ICC Arrest Warrant

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent flight to New York for the UN General Assembly took a significant detour to avoid the airspace of most European countries, except Italy and Greece. This extended route, which added hundreds of kilometers, appears to be a precautionary measure due to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu over alleged Israeli war crimes, which Israel denies. Many ICC member states have indicated they would arrest Netanyahu if he entered their territory, leading to the flight avoiding countries like France and Spain, despite having permission to fly over some of these airspaces. The unusual route contrasts with commercial flights that took more direct paths, highlighting concerns over potential legal and diplomatic complications during the journey. Netanyahu also excluded journalists from the flight, reportedly to minimize weight and fuel consumption, while appointing an English-language spokesperson to accompany him. The trip includes Netanyahu's planned speech at the UN and meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the ongoing conflict and Israel's strategic goals.