Eight countries allied with the United States have rejected American sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). In a joint statement, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Canada, and Denmark expressed their continued support for the ICC's independence, integrity, and impartiality. The statement was released by the German Foreign Ministry on Friday. The countries emphasized their commitment to the ICC, citing their signatures to the Rome Statute.
The joint statement comes in response to the US announcement of sanctions on the ICC. The US move follows hours after a former ICC judge won the Nobel Peace Prize. The sanctions have sparked a diplomatic clash between Washington and its European allies. The eight countries expressed regret and categorical rejection of the US announcement. They acknowledged the ICC's efforts to prepare for such procedures, ensuring it can continue its tasks under the Rome Statute.
The countries emphasized that if the sanctions take effect, they will significantly impact the ICC's work, its dedicated staff, and their families. The ICC's daily work involves prosecuting individuals accused of grave international crimes and supporting victims. The eight nations reiterated their commitment to enabling the ICC to carry out its duties. They also expressed concern about the potential consequences of the US sanctions.
The US sanctions were announced by President Donald Trump's administration. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stated that the measures aim to prevent the ICC from pursuing American citizens. The sanctions include a ban on financial transactions with the ICC and a cutoff of its resources. The US move is linked to the ICC's investigation into alleged war crimes by Israeli officials and its previous probe into US military actions in Afghanistan.
The ICC, established in 2002, investigates war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The court has 125 member states, including all European Union countries and NATO members except the US and Turkey. Its headquarters is located in the Netherlands. The ICC has previously issued arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The eight countries vowed to continue supporting the ICC and promoting accountability. They expressed their commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with non-parties to the Rome Statute. The countries will work together to maintain the rules-based international order and uphold the ICC's vital work.
The diplomatic standoff highlights tensions between the US and its allies over the ICC. The US has long been critical of the ICC, citing concerns about its jurisdiction and potential bias. The sanctions have sparked concerns about the impact on international cooperation and the pursuit of justice for international crimes.
Key points
- Eight countries have rejected US sanctions on the International Criminal Court.
- The US sanctions aim to prevent the ICC from pursuing American citizens.
- The ICC investigates war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.
