On September 22, 2026, US President Donald Trump addressed the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he urged all nations that are part of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to quit the body. Trump described the ICC as "out of control" and stated that the United States is opposed to the institution. The ICC is responsible for trying individuals for the world's worst crimes.
Trump's comments on the ICC were echoed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has vowed to dismantle the court "brick by brick." Rubio described the ICC as an "intolerable threat to US sovereignty." The US has imposed sanctions on ICC officials, particularly in response to the court's issuance of an arrest warrant for Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a close US ally.
The United States is not a member of the ICC and has never ratified the Rome Statute that established the court. Other notable non-members include Israel, Russia, and China. Trump's call for nations to quit the ICC reflects concerns over the court's jurisdiction and potential impact on US sovereignty. He emphasized that the US would not allow its service members to be investigated or tried by the ICC.
The ICC was established to prosecute individuals responsible for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The court's jurisdiction is based on the Rome Statute, which has been ratified by over 120 countries. The ICC has faced criticism and controversy over its actions, including the issuance of arrest warrants for high-profile individuals.
Trump's speech at the UN General Assembly highlighted his administration's concerns over the ICC and its potential impact on US interests. The US has been critical of the court's actions, particularly in relation to Israel and the Palestinian territories. The ICC has launched investigations into alleged war crimes in several countries, including Israel and Palestine.
The international community has reacted to Trump's comments on the ICC, with some countries expressing support for the court and its mission. The ICC has faced challenges and criticism over the years, but it remains an important institution for holding individuals accountable for serious crimes. The court's future and its relationship with the US and other countries will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate.
In response to Trump's call for nations to quit the ICC, it remains to be seen how many countries will heed his request. The ICC's membership and legitimacy have been the subject of ongoing debate, and Trump's comments are likely to further fuel discussions on the court's role and jurisdiction. The US and other countries will likely continue to engage with the ICC, even if they do not formally join or recognize its jurisdiction.
Key points
- US President Donald Trump urges nations to quit the International Criminal Court, citing concerns over the court's jurisdiction and impact on US sovereignty.
