Palestinians seek arrest of Israeli defense chief

Lawyers representing Palestinian groups are seeking the arrest of Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak in Britain.

The court papers accuse Barak of committing war crimes during the Israeli offensive against the Gaza Strip that began late last year.

Israeli officials said Tuesday that Barak would not change his plans because of the legal threat against him. They say he has immunity because of his role as a top government minister.

Barak is in Britain to meet with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and other senior officials. He also plans to speak to the Labour Friends of Israel group at the ruling Labour Party's conference in Brighton.

Court officials say no action has been taken on the request for an arrest warrant against Barak.