According to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Italy has assured Israel that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not face arrest if he visits Rome.
During his visit to the Italian capital, Saar confirmed discussions with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Justice Minister Carlo Nordio regarding the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Netanyahu issued in November.
Saar emphasized, “There is no problem for anyone who comes to Rome, not even for Netanyahu,” as reported by Italian news agencies ANSA and AGI. Tajani later echoed these sentiments, citing the necessity to respect diplomatic immunities.
The ICC’s warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant allege crimes against humanity and war crimes during Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, following the group’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023.
The warrants have been fiercely criticized by Israeli officials, with Israel stating its intent to appeal the ICC’s decision.
Italian officials remain divided on the matter. While Defence Minister Guido Crosetto initially suggested Italy would comply with the ICC mandate, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini stated Netanyahu would be welcome in Italy.
Meanwhile, the ICC has also issued a warrant for Hamas military leader Mohammed Deif, whom Israel claims was killed in a July airstrike in southern Gaza.
