On Tuesday (April 15th, 2025), Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s Foreign Minister, made an unannounced trip to the UK, where he met with his UK counterpart, David Lammy. After receiving tip-offs about his visit, GLAN (Global Legal Action Network), ICJP (International Centre of Justice for Palestinians) and the Hind Rajab Foundation, sought the urgent consent of the Attorney General, as required by UK law, to have Sa’ar arrested for responsibility for both war crimes and torture in Gaza.

We reject the AG’s position that Mr Sa’ar has immunity, having submitted to him with our request for consent that, under UK law, immunity  applies to heads of state (and not foreign ministers). Further, the International Court of Justice is clear that immunity is distinct from impunity. Immunity only protects Sa’ar for as long as he remains in high office. On foot of evidence we submitted to the War Crimes Unit of the London Metropolitan Police they should open an investigation into his liability regardless of the refusal by the Attorney General.

“In the midst of Israel inflicting a brutal famine & atrocities on Palestinians the UK officials had an opportunity to deliver a modicum of accountability. Instead, they shielded a member of Israel’s notorious security cabinet met, Gideon Sa’ar, a man who advocates for the halting of humanitarian aid to a starving people and the erasure of Palestine. Other countries need to demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law and ensure his arrest.”

Tayab Ali, Director of the International Centre of Justice for Palestinians (ICJP) said:

“This action, brought in a new coalition between the Global Legal Action Network, the Hind Rajab Foundation and the ICJP represents a significant escalation in the global legal effort to hold senior Israeli officials accountable for war crimes and grave breaches of international law.”

The rule of law applies to all, regardless of office or nationality. If political leaders refuse to subject themselves to the legal process, it is their own soldiers who will be left exposed facing justice alone, without immunity or protection. There will be no safe haven for suspected war criminals. International law demands accountability, and we are determined to deliver it.”

Notes to editors

For operational security, ICJP could not previously confirm or comment on their role in the joint application for an arrest warrant against Gideon Sa’ar, Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.