UK blocks arrest bid targeting Israeli minister accused of war crimes

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has informed Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar that a legal request seeking his arrest was dismissed by the British Attorney General’s Office.

The pro-Palestinian Hind Rajab Foundation had filed the request, urging authorities to issue a warrant for Saar’s arrest during his current visit to the UK. The foundation regularly pursues legal action against Israeli officials accused of committing war crimes.

A statement by the Hind Rajab Foundation said that: “Sa’ar is deeply implicated in the collective decisions that led to mass civilian death and suffering following October 7, 2023. His central role in shaping and defending the government’s military policy makes him a key figure in the leadership responsible for a campaign the International Court of Justice has found plausibly genocidal.”

The attempt to secure his arrest comes amid growing legal efforts around the world targeting Israeli officials over the war in Gaza.

On Tuesday, Saaar met with his British counterpart, Lammy.