Belgium Declines ICC Warrant, Won't Arrest Netanyahu

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced that Belgium would not arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite an active arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes in Gaza. This statement marks a significant policy shift from the previous Belgian government, which had pledged to uphold such warrants. De Wever argued that 'realpolitik' necessitates prioritizing practical concerns over legal obligations, suggesting that no European country would act against Netanyahu, citing similar sentiments from Hungary and France. Opposition parties in Belgium condemned his remarks, asserting they undermine international law. The ICC criticized both Belgium and Hungary for their decisions, emphasizing the obligation of member states to enforce arrest warrants. The political landscape in Europe appears increasingly influenced by national interests over adherence to international legal frameworks regarding Israel.