Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has reportedly cut short his visit to the United Kingdom and returned to Israel after human rights organizations formally requested an arrest warrant against him. According to the Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), the minister fled shortly after the legal request was submitted.
Alongside GLAN, the Hind Rajab Foundation also filed a request for his arrest, as reported by Al Jazeera.
GLAN posted on social media platform X, stating:
“Urgent: We have been informed that Gideon Sa’ar is fleeing the UK, cutting his trip short. He is under investigation for serious crimes. If spotted, notify the London Metropolitan Police. Do not approach him as he may be accompanied by armed security.”
Earlier, Israeli and local UK media reported that Sa’ar held a secret meeting with the British Foreign Secretary. The Guardian later confirmed, citing the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, that the meeting was a private one discussing Gaza and broader Middle East issues.
The Scottish newspaper The National mentioned that Sa’ar was originally scheduled to stay in the UK until Saturday.
Gideon Sa’ar faces accusations of involvement in the siege of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza from October to December. During that period, attacks were carried out on medical staff and patients, and the hospital’s director, Dr. Husam Abu Safiya, was reportedly abducted.
Additionally, Sa’ar has publicly opposed the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and has advocated for maintaining the ongoing blockade.