Israel on Tuesday urged Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to take back his comment on enforcing the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian said, “We believe that Prime Minister Carney should, of course, reconsider this and welcome Prime Minister Netanyahu, the leader of the only Jewish state and democratic country in the Middle East, to Canada.”

Carney stands by ICC obligation

A day earlier, Carney said Canada would act on the ICC warrant if Netanyahu entered the country. He made the statement during an interview with Mishal Husain on The Mishal Husain Show by Bloomberg.

Carney confirmed, “If Netanyahu enters Canada, he will be arrested in compliance with the ICC order.” His remarks made clear that Canada would follow its legal duty as a member of the ICC.

ICC charges against Netanyahu

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on November 21, 2024. The court accused both leaders of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict.

The charges include using starvation as a weapon and committing inhumane acts. This marked the first time the ICC had issued a warrant for the leader of a Western-backed democracy.

Canada reaffirms legal commitment

As an ICC member, Canada must enforce the court’s rulings, including arrest warrants.

Carney said his government remains committed to international law and supports justice and accountability. His stance reinforced Canada’s dedication to the rule of law despite criticism from Israel.