Germany's Merz Invites Netanyahu Amid ICC Arrest Warrant

Friedrich Merz, Germany's incoming chancellor and leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has extended an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Germany, despite an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes. Merz expressed his intention to find ways for Netanyahu to travel without facing arrest, labeling the ICC's decision as scandalous. This invitation follows Merz's party winning a significant share of the vote in the recent national election, signaling a shift in Germany's political landscape. While Germany is bound by the ICC treaty requiring it to arrest suspects, Merz's actions reflect the nation's complex historical relationship with Israel. Netanyahu's office confirmed the cordial conversation between the two leaders, emphasizing their mutual support. The ICC's warrants against Netanyahu and his former defense minister are tied to accusations of war crimes during the conflict in Gaza, which has seen a devastating humanitarian toll.