Poland Ensures Netanyahu's Participation at Auschwitz Commemoration Amid ICC Warrant

Friday 10 January 2025 - 11:03

The Polish government has pledged to guarantee the safe attendance of Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp on January 27, 2025. This commitment comes despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu for alleged war crimes related to Israel's military actions in Gaza.

A resolution by Poland's government emphasized the importance of allowing Israeli representatives to participate in this significant event, honoring the millions of Jewish victims of the Holocaust perpetrated by Nazi Germany. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk affirmed that Israeli officials, including Netanyahu, would not face detention during the commemorations in Oswiecim.

In November, the ICC issued warrants for Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and a Hamas commander on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel has rejected these accusations, maintaining its actions were in self-defense following attacks by Hamas. While Poland, as an ICC member state, is obligated to arrest individuals with outstanding warrants, the court lacks enforcement mechanisms.

Poland’s President Andrzej Duda supported the decision, highlighting the unique historical and moral significance of the Auschwitz commemoration. His office confirmed that a formal request had been made to ensure Netanyahu’s participation without hindrance.

Though Netanyahu has yet to confirm his attendance, Poland has been informed that Israel will be represented by its education minister. Netanyahu has previously participated in Auschwitz memorial events, which honor the memory of the 1.1 million victims, predominantly Jews, who perished in the camp during World War II.