Netanyahu Takes Circuitous Flight to UN to Avoid Possible Arrest in Europe

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu once again opted for an unusually long flight route to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, bypassing the airspace of several European countries. According to flight-tracking data, Israel’s official aircraft, the Wing of Zion, followed a path along the Mediterranean Sea before crossing the Atlantic rather than taking a direct route over the continent.

Netanyahu faces an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for alleged war crimes, including starvation as a method of warfare. While the Israeli government has not confirmed the reason for the route, Israeli media widely reported that it was chosen to avoid flying over countries that have signed the ICC statute and could be obligated to arrest him if he entered their territory.

The extended journey included crossings over Greece and Italy before veering south toward the Strait of Gibraltar. More direct and fuel-efficient paths would normally pass over France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, and the UK—all ICC signatories. Although France had reportedly authorized Israeli use of its airspace for Thursday’s flight, the aircraft ultimately did not enter French territory, suggesting a change of plans mid-flight.

According to that report, the 767-300ER plane even adjusted its route to remain near U.S. military bases so Netanyahu could land on one in an emergency rather than risk arrest on European soil. FlightAware flight tracking data: https://uk.flightaware.com/live/flight/XA001

Relations between Israel and France have deteriorated in recent months, with Paris spearheading international efforts to pressure Israel over its Gaza campaign, including formal recognition of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu has long opposed any recognition of Palestinian statehood, making it a cornerstone of his political career.

The Jerusalem Post reported that some journalists and members of Netanyahu’s entourage were left behind to offset the additional fuel required for the extended route. This is not the first time Netanyahu has avoided European airspace. In July, UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese criticized Italy, France, and Greece for providing “safe passage” to Netanyahu on his way to the U.S. Three months earlier, the Times of Israel quoted Israeli ambassador Yechiel Leiter as saying that Netanyahu’s February flight to Washington had taken precautions to avoid an emergency landing in Europe after his prostate surgery in late 2024 heightened fears of a medical diversion.

Netanyahu is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Friday and meet U.S. President Donald Trump next week. Both leaders reject the ICC’s authority.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, uk.flightaware.com