In a video statement issued in Hebrew, Mr. Netanyahu denounced the warrant sought by the International Criminal Court (I.C.C.) against him and his defense minister, claiming it was directed against the entire state of Israel and its soldiers fighting against Hamas. Some analysts believe that Netanyahu views the I.C.C. as a strategic opponent that could help rally support for his cause. Many Israelis already see the court as biased against Israel, and the fact that it has not addressed Hamas’ actions adds to their negative perception. While Netanyahu and his defense minister may not face arrest at home due to Israel’s non-membership in the I.C.C., they could be arrested if they travel to member nations.
France, a key ally of Israel, did not condemn the I.C.C.’s request for warrants against Israeli leaders, unlike the Biden administration, and instead expressed support for the court’s independence. France highlighted concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza and called on Israel to respect international humanitarian law. Some analysts believe that Netanyahu’s efforts to tie his fate to all Israelis could ultimately backfire, leading to further isolation of Israel on the international stage and making it vulnerable to embargoes and boycotts. The growing criticism of Israel’s judicial system and democracy, especially in relation to the I.C.C.’s actions, is cause for concern among some observers.
Critics of Netanyahu argue that his leadership is harmful to Israel’s standing and could worsen the country’s reputation internationally. They believe that support for Netanyahu may fade if the legal process expands to include soldiers and other Israelis, putting them at risk of arrest while traveling abroad. Some analysts suggest that Netanyahu’s attempt to link his fate to all Israelis may not be in the country’s best interest in the long run. The criticism of Israel for failing to hold its citizens accountable and for its actions in Gaza has led to concerns about the impact on the country’s reputation and relations with other nations.
Mr. Netanyahu’s attempt to portray the warrant from the I.C.C. as an attack on all of Israel’s citizens could be a strategic move to galvanize support among Israelis who already view the court as hostile toward their country. However, there are concerns that this approach could have negative consequences for Israel in the long term, leading to increased isolation and vulnerability to international pressure. France’s response to the I.C.C.’s request for warrants against Israeli leaders differs from that of the Biden administration, highlighting the complex and varied reactions among ally nations to these developments. Ultimately, the debate over Israel’s standing as a liberal democracy and the implications of the I.C.C.’s actions for its reputation and relationships with other countries remain contentious issues among analysts and observers.
