The International Criminal Court, ICC, has pledged to continue its work despite US President Donald Trump imposing sanctions on its staff.
The move follows the court’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Minister of Defence, Yoav Gallant. The ICC also issued arrest warrant for Hamas military commander, Mohammed Deif who was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike.
Trump’s executive order places financial and visa restrictions on individuals linked to ICC investigations of American citizens or allies. The White House claims the court’s actions are “illegitimate and baseless,” arguing they set a “dangerous precedent” that could threaten US sovereignty and security.
The sanctions were signed as Netanyahu visited Washington, with Israeli officials applauding the move. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called the ICC’s actions “immoral” and lacking a legal basis.
The court responded by condemning the sanctions, emphasising its commitment to justice and victims of war crimes. It stated it would not be intimidated and would continue its mission of prosecuting those responsible for atrocities.
European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have backed the ICC, calling for it to remain independent in its pursuit of global accountability. The Netherlands, which hosts the court, also expressed regret over Trump’s order, highlighting the ICC’s crucial role in fighting impunity.
The court has previously issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin over war crimes in Ukraine, Taliban leaders for persecuting Afghan women, and Myanmar’s military leader for crimes against the Rohingya. While the US is not a member of the ICC, more than 120 countries, including the UK, support its jurisdiction.
In his first term, Trump imposed similar sanctions on ICC officials investigating alleged US war crimes in Afghanistan. Those measures were later lifted by President Joe Biden, but the latest executive order marks a renewed crackdown on the court.
Amid growing international debate, a group of nations, including South Africa and Malaysia, has formed the “Hague Group” to defend the ICC against political pressure. The court remains resolute, insisting that justice must be served regardless of political interference.
Reported by BBC
