Official statement from the Polish government or news agencies

Poland to Ensure Netanyahu's Safety at 80th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation on January 27

Jan 9, 2025, 05:13 PM

Polish President Andrzej Duda has requested that the Polish government ensure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can attend the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on January 27 without the risk of arrest. This request comes in light of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Duda emphasized the exceptional nature of the event, suggesting that all representatives from Israel should be able to participate. In response, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that the government would guarantee safe and unhindered access for Israeli officials, including Netanyahu, to the commemorative events. Tusk stated that any Israeli representative, including the prime minister, president, or minister, would be assured safety and would not be detained. The commemorations are set to take place on January 27, marking 80 years since the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp by the Red Army.