Calls for Justice: Protests Erupt in Poland Over Netanyahu’s Immunity from ICC Arrest Warrant

Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories, has urged Poland to uphold international justice by arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits the country. Her call comes in response to Poland's earlier criticism of Mongolia for not detaining Russian President Vladimir Putin under an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant.

Albanese emphasised that selective enforcement undermines the universality of international justice and multilateralism. She stated, "Poland, which condemned Mongolia for not arresting President Putin, should arrest Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visits." 

Putin.PNG
 

This issue has sparked public outcry in Poland. A protest occurred in Warsaw against the government's decision to disregard the ICC's arrest warrant for Netanyahu during his potential visit. Demonstrators, many carrying Palestinian flags, gathered in front of the presidential palace and marched to the Ministry of Justice and the Prime Minister's office, chanting slogans like "Free Palestine" and "Arrest Netanyahu." 

In November 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. While several European nations have expressed their intent to comply with the ICC's decision, the United States has rejected it, asserting that the court lacks jurisdiction in this matter. 

Netenyahou and Gallant.PNG
 

Despite the ICC's warrants, the Polish government has adopted a resolution ensuring that senior Israeli officials, including Netanyahu, can attend the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz without the risk of arrest. Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed this move, which has been criticised by legal experts and human rights advocates as a violation of international obligations.

The situation highlights the challenges and controversies surrounding the enforcement of international law and the principle of universal jurisdiction, particularly when political considerations intersect with legal obligations.
 

Source : Safa News