Ottawa [Canada], October 22, 2025: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that he would uphold the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he enters Canada, reiterating the decision made by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Carney made the remarks during an interview with Bloomberg on Sunday, responding affirmatively when asked whether he would be ready to enforce the warrant.
Speaking on Canada’s position regarding Palestinian statehood, Carney emphasized that the ultimate goal remains a free and viable Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel. He criticized the Netanyahu administration, stating, “The actions of the Netanyahu government were explicitly designed to end any possibility of a State of Palestine, in violation of the UN Charter and contrary to Canadian policy maintained across governments since 1947.”
Acknowledging differing views from the United States, Carney noted, “Yes, the U.S. disagrees with the decision that Canada, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, and 150 other UN member states have taken, but our common objective remains the same.” His comments coincided with the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, facilitated under U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan, underscoring continuing tensions in the region.
According to The Jerusalem Post, there are currently no indications that Netanyahu or Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant would have their ICC records dismissed as a political gesture, in exchange for ending the conflict, or as part of transitional justice arrangements. Experts note that if Netanyahu loses the 2026 elections, his legal vulnerability could increase, as some nations extend immunity only to sitting heads of state.
Although the ICC’s Appeals Chamber reduced the scope of the arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant in April, the cases remain active. Recent legal filings suggest the warrants are likely to be upheld, with a final ruling expected soon, keeping international attention on the Israeli leadership.
