Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung reacted furiously to Israel's interception and detention of two Korean activists aboard separate ships on a humanitarian mission bound for the Gaza Strip. Calling Israel's actions "unlawful, excessive and inhumane," Lee went further, suggesting that Korea should join countries calling for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee's emotional rhetoric is expected to trigger another rift with Israel, following his resharing earlier this year of a social media post containing a video of Israeli soldiers that initially included an inaccurate caption. During a livestreamed Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Lee pressed National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac to answer a series of pointed questions about the incident, arguing that Israel had unlawfully intercepted and detained aid workers from third countries, including Korea, in international waters.
"Is it fair for Israel to act like this?" Lee asked bluntly. Wi responded cautiously, saying the issue was more complicated than it appeared. Lee persisted, questioning Israel's authority to conduct a naval blockade in international waters and pressing for a direct response. Wi avoided giving a direct answer, citing the complexity of the issue and noting that the latest escalation began after Hamas invaded Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, resulting in significant casualties and hostages.
Lee brought up the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for Netanyahu on charges of war crimes, suggesting Korea consider joining efforts to arrest the Israeli leader. In 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and senior Israeli and Hamas figures over allegations of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed during the conflict triggered by Hamas' attack on Israel. However, the ICC lacks enforcement power, and whether those charged are detained depends on individual countries' political decisions.
Lee's remarks sparked controversy, as it is unusual for a head of state to publicly support the arrest of a foreign leader. The manner in which Lee handled the issue has also raised concerns, with his public exchange with the top security adviser creating the impression of misalignment on a critical foreign policy issue.
Lee's stance oversimplifies the international response to the ICC warrant, as opinions remain sharply divided. European nations, in particular, are split over the issue, with some willing to enforce the warrant and others citing immunity concerns based on Article 98 of the Rome Statute.
Despite Lee's outspoken criticism of Israel's alleged human rights violations, he has remained largely silent on other foreign leaders facing ICC charges. This perceived double standard has left him open to criticism of selectively applying the principle of justice.
Following Lee's hardline stance, Israel released the two Koreans detained, a move welcomed by the presidential office, although they expressed regret over the initial detention.