Shopping cart
Your cart empty!
Netanyahu Avoids European Skies Amid ICC Arrest Warrant, Takes Longer Route to UN in New York
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent flight to New York for the UN General Assembly followed an unusually long route, deliberately avoiding much of Europe. Flight-tracking data revealed that the Israeli state plane, “Wing of Zion,” flew over Greece and Italy before turning south toward the Strait of Gibraltar and then crossing the Atlantic.
This cautious routing comes in the wake of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu earlier this year, related to alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict. Countries that are signatories to the Rome Statute, such as France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, and the UK, are legally obligated to act on ICC warrants if the accused enters their jurisdiction. Avoiding these countries’ airspace reduces the risk of legal complications from an unscheduled or emergency landing.
Although French officials authorised Israeli use of their airspace for the flight, Netanyahu’s plane ultimately did not fly over France, suggesting a change in route for safety. Israeli media also reported that to accommodate additional fuel for the longer journey, some staff and journalists were left behind.
This is not the first instance of Netanyahu’s flights avoiding European skies. Previous trips to Washington in February and July followed circuitous paths for similar security concerns. Medical considerations are also a factor, as Netanyahu underwent prostate surgery in late 2024, with flights strategically routed near US military bases in case of emergencies.
Netanyahu is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly and meet US President Donald Trump next week. Both leaders have publicly rejected the ICC’s jurisdiction.
6
Published: Sep 26, 2025
All India Story
All India Story is your trusted source for comprehensive and up-to-the-minute news coverage across India. Bringing you the latest on politics, business, technology, entertainment, sports, and more, we are dedicated to keeping you informed with accurate, engaging, and insightful stories from every corner of the nation.
