Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
ICC Stands Firm Amid US Sanctions Over Netanyahu Arrest Warrant
ICC Responds to US Sanctions
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has vowed to continue its judicial work after former US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on its staff. The ICC strongly condemned the move, emphasizing that it remains committed to its mission of delivering justice to victims of atrocities worldwide.
US Sanctions Following Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
Trump’s order came after the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing alleged war crimes in Gaza claims that Israel denies. The court also issued a warrant for a Hamas commander. The US government accused the ICC of taking "illegitimate and baseless actions" and undermining the sovereignty of the United States and its allies.
ICC’s Global Jurisdiction and Recent Warrants
The ICC, an independent global court with 120 member countries including the UK and many European nations has the authority to prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The court has previously issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, Taliban leaders for crimes against Afghan women and girls, and Myanmar’s military leaders for actions against the Rohingya Muslims.
White House Criticism and Sanctions Impact
The White House denounced the ICC's decision, stating that issuing warrants for Netanyahu and Hamas leaders simultaneously created a "shameful moral equivalency" between Israel and Hamas. Trump's executive order argued that the ICC’s actions set a dangerous precedent, potentially exposing Americans to "harassment, abuse, and possible arrest."
The sanctions place financial and visa restrictions on individuals involved in ICC investigations targeting American citizens or allies. The move has sparked criticism from US allies, including Germany and the Netherlands, while the United Nations has called for the order to be reversed.
International Reactions
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office reaffirmed support for the ICC’s independence, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the court "must be able to freely pursue the fight against global impunity."
However, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar welcomed the sanctions, calling the ICC's actions "immoral and without legal basis." Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto also supported Trump’s decision, accusing the ICC of acting as a "biased political tool."
Historical US Opposition to the ICC
The US has long rejected ICC jurisdiction over American officials or citizens, arguing that the court places undue constraints on Israel’s right to self defense while ignoring threats from Iran and anti Israel groups.
During Trump’s first term, his administration imposed similar sanctions on ICC officials investigating possible US war crimes in Afghanistan, including a travel ban and asset freezes against the court’s former chief prosecutor. These sanctions were later lifted by President Joe Biden.
The Formation of the Hague Group
In response to efforts challenging the ICC's authority, nine nations including South Africa and Malaysia formed the ‘Hague Group’ to defend the court and its rulings.
Trump’s Vision for Gaza and Further Controversy
Trump’s executive order followed his proposal for the US to "take over" Gaza, resettle its Palestinian population, and transform the territory into the "Riviera of the Middle East." The plan was met with condemnation from Arab leaders and the United Nations.
ICC's Case Against Netanyahu
The ICC prosecutor found reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant bear criminal responsibility for war crimes, including the use of starvation as a method of warfare and crimes against humanity such as murder and persecution. They are also accused of intentionally targeting civilian populations.
Despite the sanctions and political pressure, the ICC remains resolute in its mission, reaffirming its commitment to justice and accountability on a global scale.
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