France clears Netanyahu's UN flight despite ICC warrant
France permitted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s aircraft to cross its airspace on September 24, 2026, despite an active International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant. French officials stated that the Rome Statute does not mandate action for overflights, only for entry into territory. Netanyahu arrived in New York for a brief UN General Assembly address, having previously avoided European airspace due to the warrant.
Key points
- France’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pascal Confavreux confirmed the overflight clearance was 'in full conformity with international law.'
- The Rome Statute, to which France is a signatory, does not require arresting suspects during overflights, only upon entry into territory.
- Flight-tracking data showed Netanyahu’s plane crossed Greece, Italy, and France, marking a shift from previous circuitous routes.
- Netanyahu arrived in New York around 9 a.m. ET for a short visit to address the UN General Assembly.
- Israel rejects ICC jurisdiction and denies the war crimes allegations underlying the 2024 warrant.
Background
This event follows a high-profile confrontation between Netanyahu and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who called for his arrest based on the ICC warrant. Previous UN visits required Netanyahu to avoid European airspace due to the warrant. The ICC issued the warrant in 2024 for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the legal ambiguity surrounding ICC warrants and state sovereignty, as France’s action sets a precedent for overflight permissions. It also underscores the geopolitical tension between the US, which has criticized the ICC, and European nations that support the court.
What to watch
Netanyahu is expected to return to Israel later on September 24 after his UN speech. The US has urged ICC members to quit the court, while France has condemned such threats.
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