In a powerful show of solidarity, 79 member states of the International Criminal Court (ICC) reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the court’s mission of upholding international justice, despite sanctions imposed by the United States.
The joint statement, issued on Friday, emphasized the ICC’s essential role in the global justice system, ensuring accountability for the gravest international crimes, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The signatories condemned the sanctions, describing them as threats to the international rule of law that could allow perpetrators of serious crimes to escape punishment.
This renewed support comes after the US under President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on the ICC, specifically targeting its efforts to investigate alleged war crimes committed by Israeli officials. The sanctions, which include asset freezes and travel bans, were enacted in response to the ICC’s decision to probe Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant, for their role in the Gaza conflict. The US argues that these actions infringe on American sovereignty, as Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute, which grants the ICC jurisdiction.
Despite the US opposition, the ICC asserts jurisdiction over crimes committed in territories recognized by the United Nations, including Palestine. The court’s investigation into alleged crimes in Gaza and the West Bank began in 2021 after the Pre-Trial Chamber I affirmed its jurisdiction over these areas, based on a 2012 UN General Assembly resolution.
In addition to the 79 states, a broader coalition of 93 member nations expressed their support for the ICC’s mandate after the US House of Representatives passed a bill requiring sanctions on the court in 2024. The statement also follows the formation of the Hague Group in February, which includes countries like South Africa, Colombia, and Malaysia, seeking to coordinate legal and diplomatic responses to Israel’s actions.
The ICC, established by the Rome Statute, holds jurisdiction over crimes of international concern, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. Beyond its investigations into Israel, the court is also pursuing cases against Taliban officials for alleged crimes in Afghanistan.
As tensions mount between the US and the ICC, this ongoing global debate highlights the challenges of maintaining international justice in the face of political pressures and sovereignty disputes.
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