Norwegian government supports ICC investigation into Hamas and Israeli actions regarding Oslo Accords

The Norwegian government sent a letter last week indicating its belief that the International Criminal Court (ICC) could investigate cases against Hamas leaders and the Israeli government in relation to the Oslo Accords. This communication reportedly led to Israel revoking the diplomatic status of eight Norwegian representatives in the Palestinian territories.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide expressed that while he understands the recent developments, he believes the government acted correctly in the matter.

The ICC, based in The Hague, Netherlands, prosecutes individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression, but Israel is not a member of the court, whereas Palestine is. This membership status means the ICC has jurisdiction over the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Countries that are members are obliged to comply with ICC rulings, including arrest warrants.

In May, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan issued arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders and Israeli officials, accusing them of various war crimes and violations. These include crimes such as murder, torture, and the deliberate targeting of civilians.

Following Khan’s statements, some countries challenged the ICC’s authority to issue warrants against Israeli leaders, citing Israel’s non-member status. In response, the Norwegian government asserted it is up to the ICC to decide whom to prosecute.

The tensions escalated when Israel withdrew the diplomatic status of Norwegian representatives, a move connected to Norway’s recognition of Palestine as a state. Eide described this withdrawal as an extreme measure, but noted Norway has received broad international support, including from the U.S., EU, Germany, and the UK, urging Israel to reconsider its decision.