The United Kingdom is facing accusations of obstructing the ICC’s prosecution of Israeli war crimes by delaying a decision on issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and others. The ICC prosecutor filed an application for these warrants in May, prompting judges to allow the UK to submit legal arguments in the case. The UK’s argument is based on the Oslo Accords, claiming that Palestinian authorities cannot transfer jurisdiction over Israeli nationals to the ICC. However, experts argue that the Oslo Accords do not prevent the ICC from prosecuting individuals in Palestine.
Chris Doyle, director of the Council for Arab-British Understanding, criticized the UK’s interference in ICC decisions, suggesting it is enabling Israeli actions without accountability. The International Centre of Justice for Palestinians also condemned the UK’s actions, stating that Palestinians should have the right to seek justice through international mechanisms like the ICC.
Despite calls to withdraw the request, the UK has not responded to comments. With the Labour Party’s support for the ICC’s actions, the upcoming elections could have implications for the UK’s stance on international law and accountability for war crimes.