Israel Challenges ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu Amid UK Tensions

The International Criminal Court's request for an arrest warrant against Israeli PM Netanyahu has led to diplomatic friction with the UK over arms embargoes and international law.

Israel formally contested the ICC's jurisdiction and the legality of arrest warrants for PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
The ICC prosecutor sought the arrest warrants in May, accusing Netanyahu and Gallant of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government suspended 30 arms export licenses to Israel, citing concerns over violations of international humanitarian law.
Netanyahu criticized the UK for sending 'mixed messages' by supporting Israel's right to self-defense while blocking arms sales and not contesting the ICC's request.
The diplomatic tension comes amid heightened conflict in Gaza, with Israel's counter-attacks following a deadly Hamas assault on October 7.