The United States is considering imposing sanctions on the entire International Criminal Court (ICC), marking a significant escalation in its campaign against the tribunal, according to reports from Reuters. This potential move would target the court’s operations, possibly crippling its ability to pay staff salaries and access banking services.
The decision follows the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli officials and Hamas members, which the US has previously targeted individually. The situation has sparked concern among ICC member countries, with some planning to raise issues at the United Nations General Assembly. The ICC, established in 2002, seeks to prosecute genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. While the US and Israel reject the court’s jurisdiction over Gaza, the ICC recognizes Palestine as a member, granting it jurisdiction over alleged crimes in the region.
The potential sanctions have prompted the ICC to prepare by paying staff in advance and seeking alternative service providers. The US has criticized the ICC as a national security threat and has previously sanctioned ICC officials, including its lead prosecutor, Karim Khan, amid allegations of sexual misconduct. This move has intensified discussions about the court’s role in international justice, raising questions about the balance between national interests and global governance.
The pressure from the United States has also prompted the ICC to hold emergency meetings with diplomats from member states to assess the potential impact of sanctions. Despite the criticism, the ICC continues to assert its commitment to justice, emphasizing its role in prosecuting serious crimes against humanity. The situation highlights the growing tensions between the US and international institutions, with implications for global legal frameworks and diplomatic relations.