ICC denounces sanction by US, reassures firmness to continue judicial exercise
Credit: Human Rights Watch
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has vowed to continue its judicial work despite sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump.
The sanctions target ICC personnel, placing financial and visa restrictions on individuals involved in investigations of US citizens or allies.
Recall president Donald Trump slapped an executive order on the top court after it accused the it of engaging in “illegitimate and baseless actions” against the US and Israel, following the ICC’s issuance of an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
The court also issued a warrant for a Hamas commander, prompting condemnation from both US and Israeli officials.
In response, the ICC reaffirmed its commitment to justice, declaring that it “stands firmly” by its personnel and will continue its work impartially.
The Netherlands, which hosts the court, expressed regret over Trump’s order, emphasizing the ICC’s crucial role in combating impunity.
Trump’s decision drew further support from Israeli officials, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denouncing the ICC’s actions as “immoral” and legally baseless. The US has long rejected the court’s jurisdiction over its citizens, arguing that it unfairly targets Israel while ignoring violations by Iran and anti-Israel groups.
Despite past US sanctions under Trump, later lifted by President Joe Biden, tensions between Washington and The Hague persist.
In defiance of pressure, nine nations, including South Africa and Malaysia, recently launched the ‘Hague Group’ to defend the court’s legitimacy.
Meanwhile, the ICC continues to issue warrants for global figures, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Myanmar’s military leader, reinforcing its stance against impunity.
