Netanyahu Flies Through Canadian Airspace Despite ICC Arrest Warrant
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew through Canadian airspace on Thursday, September 24, 2026, while traveling to New York to address the United Nations General Assembly, despite an international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court. Online flight tracker data confirms the aircraft traversed Greek, Italian, French, and Canadian airspace during the journey.
Diplomatic Clearance and the International Criminal Court Warrant
The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu in November 2024 concerning alleged war crimes in the Gaza Strip. Foreign dignitaries are required to request permission from Ottawa three working days in advance of flying through Canadian airspace. Myah Tomasi, spokesperson for Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, stated that authorization for the aircraft to pass through Canadian airspace should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the policies or actions of any particular government. Tomasi added that the overflight request was connected directly to the United Nations General Assembly, which she described as a critical forum for diplomatic engagement.
Prior Statements and Legal Criticisms
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated in October that the Israeli leader will be arrested if he enters Canada. Ahead of the flight, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand noted that she asked her department to provide information regarding the specific flyover, emphasizing that Canada holds strong views on what she termed crimes against humanity. Legal experts have previously criticized Canada for allowing Netanyahu’s plane to enter Canadian airspace on earlier occasions despite the outstanding arrest warrant, which the United States does not recognize.
The General Assembly Address
During his visit to New York on Thursday, September 24, 2026, Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. AP Photo coverage documented the prime minister holding up a Starlink satellite internet dish while speaking at United Nations headquarters.
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