The recent shift in France’s policy regarding Israel, particularly concerning the ICC arrest warrant for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has elicited varied reactions from different countries and organizations:

International Responses

Human Rights Organizations:

• Amnesty International criticized France’s position as “deeply problematic”

• Human Rights Watch called it “shocking nonsense”

European Union:

• EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that the ICC’s decision should be “respected and implemented” by EU member states

Diplomatic Reactions

United States:

• Condemned the ICC’s warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant as “outrageous”

G7 Nations:

• Seeking a common position on the warrant, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani

Regional Impact

Middle East:

• Israel criticized the ICC’s decision as “shameful and absurd”

• Hamas praised it as “an important step towards justice”

Domestic Reactions in France

Political Opposition:

• Marine Tondelier, leader of France’s Green party, accused France of yielding to Netanyahu’s demands

Broader Implications

The shift in France’s stance has raised questions about the consistency of international justice and the application of ICC warrants to world leaders. It has also highlighted the complex balance between diplomatic relations and adherence to international legal obligations.

This change in policy comes amid ongoing efforts by France to maintain its role in Middle East diplomacy, including recent involvement in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.