Israel says it asked Canada for permission for Netanyahu to use Canadian airspace
The Israeli government requested permission to use Canadian airspace for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's flight to Washington, D.C. Canadian officials remained ambiguous regarding the request, citing obligations to international law and the ICC.
Why it matters
The situation highlights the complex diplomatic and legal tensions Canada faces regarding international arrest warrants and its obligations as a signatory to the Rome Statute.
However, the Israeli government spokesperson did not respond to a second question about whether that permission had been granted.
An Israeli government Boeing 767, known as the Wing of Zion, overflew Newfoundland and Nova Scotia carrying Netanyahu to Washington, D.C., where his agenda included a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and attending the funeral of Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham.
The Israeli leader has been sought by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza since Nov. 21, 2024, when the ICC issued an arrest warrant for murder, persecution and using starvation as a method of warfare.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has previously said that he would arrest Netanyahu if he came to Canada. His predecessor Justin Trudeau had made the same pledge .
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