International Criminal Court, ICC, President Tomoko Akane has urged Japan to use its influence to counter United States pressure on member countries to withdraw from the Hague-based court.
Akane made the appeal while speaking to reporters in Tokyo via video link, describing Japan’s support as crucial to the continued survival of the ICC, which Japan joined in 2007 and remains its largest financial contributor. “Japan has long made the rule of law a cornerstone of its diplomacy. Consequently, both I and the international community hold high expectations for Japan,” she said.
She also called on Tokyo to engage neighboring countries that are members of the court and encourage them to remain part of the institution despite growing pressure from Washington.
The appeal comes after US President Donald Trump’s administration intensified its campaign against the ICC by imposing sanctions on Akane and a senior trial lawyer last week.
Washington has also indicated that it will increase efforts to persuade other countries to withdraw from the court, with at least five countries already responding to the campaign.
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Akane said Japan’s close relationship with the United States gives it an opportunity to discourage Washington from taking further measures against the ICC. “Japan’s strong support for the ICC here will greatly contribute to its future survival,” she said.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi initially described the US sanctions against the ICC as “very unfortunate”.
However, her response has attracted criticism from opposition parties, human rights organisations and some members of her own political party, who believe Japan should take a stronger position in defence of the court.
The ICC was established in 2002 to prosecute individuals accused of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Although the United States is not a member of the court, Washington has strongly opposed some of its investigations and decisions.
The ICC’s decision to seek an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza has been a major source of tension between the court and the US, which maintains close ties with Israel.
The court has also faced criticism from Washington over its previous investigation into alleged crimes involving US forces in Afghanistan.
Akane said the current pressure represented an important test for countries that support international justice and the rule of law. “Countries, people and media are saying this is a litmus test for their expectations of Japan,” she said.
The ICC president warned that the outcome of the current dispute could have long-term consequences for the institution. “This is where the real challenge begins,” Akane added.
Al Jazeera
