Unlikely Belgium Would Arrest Netanyahu: Belgium’s Prime Minister Bart De Wever has triggered widespread criticism after stating that it is unlikely Belgium would arrest Netanyahu, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant accusing the Israeli Prime Minister of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
In a candid interview with Flemish broadcaster VRT on Thursday, De Wever addressed Netanyahu’s recent controversial visit to Hungary, where he was warmly welcomed despite the ICC warrant. The Belgian leader expressed skepticism that any European country, including Belgium, would act on the arrest warrant.
“I don’t think there is a European country that would arrest Netanyahu if he were on their territory. France, for example, wouldn’t do it. I don’t think we would either,” said De Wever, a prominent Flemish conservative figure.
Hungary Welcomes Netanyahu, Begins ICC Exit Process
The remarks followed Netanyahu’s red-carpet reception in Hungary—an event that coincided with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s move to begin withdrawal procedures from the ICC. Hungary’s defiance starkly contrasts with the stance of many European nations that claim to uphold international law.
Yet De Wever made it clear that while Belgium may not arrest Netanyahu, it would not consider withdrawing from the ICC.
“We remain committed to multilateralism and the international rules-based order,” he added, even as he cast doubt on enforcing the ICC’s warrant within Belgian borders.
Emergency Landing Scenario: “Highly Unlikely,” Says De Wever
Pressed on whether Belgium would detain Netanyahu in a hypothetical emergency landing situation, De Wever initially called it “highly unlikely” and ultimately suggested the arrest still would not occur.
The statement has led to fierce reactions both domestically and internationally.
Unlikely Belgium Would Arrest Netanyahu, Says PM—Opposition Slams “Legal Failure”
Paul Magnette, leader of Belgium’s French-speaking Socialist Party, did not mince his words in response.
“When an international arrest warrant is issued, when international justice speaks, Belgium must respond. Unambiguously,” Magnette insisted. “This is not just a legal matter; it’s a moral obligation.”
Magnette’s strong stance has been echoed by legal experts and civil society organizations, who say the Prime Minister’s words undermine international law and Belgium’s global credibility.
Human Rights Groups Condemn PM’s Position
Belgian NGO CNCD 11.11.11, known for its work on human rights and global justice, described De Wever’s remarks as “unacceptable.”
“His words weaken the foundation of international law and send the wrong message to war criminals worldwide,” the organization said in a public statement. “If Belgium refuses to comply with an ICC arrest warrant, who will?”
Unlikely Belgium Would Arrest Netanyahu, Says PM—ICC’s Authority in Jeopardy?
The situation has reignited global debates around the effectiveness of the ICC and the willingness of states to enforce its rulings. Critics argue that non-compliance from European democracies like Belgium could severely undermine the ICC’s authority.
The arrest warrant for Netanyahu stems from Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which the ICC alleges involved disproportionate attacks on civilians, potentially amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Despite the charges, Israel has refused to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction, and allies such as the United States have criticized the warrant as politically motivated.
Netanyahu’s Travel Continues Uninterrupted Despite Warrant
While the ICC warrant remains active, Netanyahu continues to travel abroad with little concern over arrest. His trip to Hungary and the response from leaders like De Wever reveal deep fractures within the international community on how to respond.
With Belgium’s prime minister publicly downplaying enforcement of international justice, the implications for the global legal system may be profound.
Despite the legal authority of the ICC, enforcement of the warrant against Netanyahu remains highly uncertain. The United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Hungary — all ICC member states — are strong political and military allies of Israel. Their governments have voiced support for Israel’s right to defend itself and are unlikely to act on the warrant should Netanyahu step foot on their territory.
