France Faces Backlash Over Immunity for Netanyahu Despite ICC Arrest Warrant

French officials defend granting diplomatic immunity to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, prompting criticism from political leaders and human rights groups.

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is granted immunity in France under international law, as Israel is not a party to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The ICC recently issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, accusing him of war crimes and crimes against humanity, alongside other Israeli and Hamas officials.
Jean-Luc Mélenchon, a prominent French political figure, condemned the decision, stating that France should not serve as a 'refuge for criminals' and criticizing the government's interpretation of international law.
Human rights organizations and critics argue that the decision undermines France's historical stance on justice and human rights, with some linking it to political deals involving Middle East diplomacy.
The controversy has sparked broader debates about France's commitment to the ICC and its handling of alleged war crimes by global leaders.