Why are foreign ambassadors exempt from arrest?

Foreign ambassadors are exempt from arrest primarily due to the principles of diplomatic immunity, which are grounded in international law. This immunity is established by international agreements, particularly the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961. These legal frameworks ensure that ambassadors and other diplomatic personnel can perform their duties without fear of coercion or harassment by the host country’s authorities.

The correct answer hinges on the understanding that this immunity is a part of federal law, as the U.S. has ratified treaties that facilitate these protections. Thus, federal law incorporates international agreements that define the rights and privileges granted to diplomats, including exemption from arrest. This framework is critical for maintaining peaceful international relations and enabling ambassadors to operate effectively without interference from the host nation.

Additionally, while it might be true that ambassadors are generally not considered criminals under international norms, this does not fully encompass the legal protections afforded to them. Similarly, state law does not govern diplomatic immunity, as it is a matter resolved at the federal level through international treaty obligations. Therefore, understanding the basis of diplomatic immunity in the context of federal law and international agreements solidifies the rationale for why foreign ambassadors enjoy this protection.