Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew a circuitous route to New York for the UN General Assembly, apparently to avoid European countries that could act on an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against him.
Flight-tracking data showed that Netanyahu’s official aircraft, the Wing of Zion, travelled along the Mediterranean before crossing Greece and Italy, then veering south towards the Strait of Gibraltar and across the Atlantic. A shorter and more fuel-efficient path would have crossed France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland and the UK, all signatories to the ICC statute and legally obliged to arrest him if he entered their territory.
The ICC has accused Netanyahu of crimes including the use of starvation as a method of warfare. While it is unclear whether countries would force a plane to land to carry out an arrest, the risk would be greater in the event of an emergency diversion.
France had reportedly authorized Israeli use of its airspace for Thursday’s flight, according to AFP, but the plane did not cross French territory, suggesting the route may have changed mid-flight. Israeli officials have not provided a reason for the detour, though media reports linked it to fears of possible arrest.
Relations between Israel and France have deteriorated in recent months, with Paris leading a diplomatic drive to recognize Palestinian statehood and pressuring Israel to halt its Gaza offensive. Netanyahu has strongly opposed any move towards a Palestinian state throughout his political career.
The Jerusalem Post reported that some journalists and members of Netanyahu’s entourage were left behind to offset the additional fuel needed for the extended journey. It is not the first time his flights have taken indirect routes. In July, UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese criticized Italy, France and Greece for offering “safe passage” when Netanyahu flew to the US.
Earlier in February, the Times of Israel quoted Israeli ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter as saying that Netanyahu’s aircraft deliberately avoided European airspace due to fears he could be forced to land. The envoy also revealed that concerns were heightened after Netanyahu underwent prostate surgery in late 2024, with doctors warning of possible in-flight medical emergencies. To reduce risks, the plane reportedly stayed close to US military bases where it could land safely.
Netanyahu is set to address the UN General Assembly on Friday and will meet US President Donald Trump next week. Both leaders reject the ICC’s authority.