UK’s Diplomatic Immunity for Netanyahu
The UK government has granted special mission immunity to Benjamin Netanyahu, the former Prime Minister of Israel, and other officials. Netanyahu faces accusations of war crimes, including the deaths of thousands of children in Gaza and the West Bank. This immunity allows these officials to avoid prosecution during their visits to the UK, raising serious concerns about the UK’s commitment to international law and human rights.
Accusations and Implications
Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, such as Doron Almog and Shaul Mofaz, have been accused of war crimes, including the targeting of civilian homes and the use of collective punishment. The UK’s decision to grant them immunity has been heavily criticized for undermining international law and allowing alleged war criminals to escape accountability.
The UK government has granted “special mission” immunity to several Israeli officials, including former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces serious allegations of international law violations. Netanyahu is accused of being responsible for the deaths of 13,800 children in Gaza and 113 in the West Bank, according to reports from OCHA and the Ministry of Health. There is also an outstanding warrant for his arrest on charges of war crimes, including targeting Palestinian family homes and employing torture and collective punishment.
In addition to Netanyahu, other Israeli officials such as Doron Almog, a retired major general, and Shaul Mofaz, a former IDF chief of staff and defence minister, have also been granted immunity. Both Almog and Mofaz have been accused of war crimes, including the murder of Gazan citizens.
The UK’s decision to grant these immunities has sparked significant controversy. Critics argue that it undermines international law and allows individuals accused of severe human rights violations to evade accountability.
The move has been perceived as prioritising diplomatic relations with Israel over the commitment to uphold human rights and international law.
Key Events in the UK’s Granting of Immunity
Below is a timeline of significant events related to the UK government’s decision to grant special mission immunity to Netanyahu and other Israeli officials.
2015
Initial Immunity Granted
The UK government first grants special mission immunity to Netanyahu and several other Israeli officials, sparking international debate and criticism.
2017
Renewed Immunity Status
Amid rising tensions and further allegations of war crimes, the UK renews the immunity status for Netanyahu and other officials, reinforcing its diplomatic stance.
2019
Public Outcry Intensifies
Human rights organisations and international bodies increase pressure on the UK government to revoke the immunity, highlighting the ongoing violations and lack of accountability.
2021
Legal Challenges
Several legal challenges are brought against the UK government’s decision, questioning the legality and ethical implications of granting immunity to individuals accused of war crimes.