ICC President Vows to Resist US Sanctions and Continue Pursuing Justice

DID Press: International Criminal Court (ICC) President Tomoko Akane has vowed that the court will continue its work independently and impartially despite new US sanctions, reaffirming its commitment to delivering justice for victims of serious crimes.

In a statement issued in response to the sanctions imposed by the US government on Friday, October 9, the ICC said the measures were intended to disrupt its operations and intimidate its staff and those cooperating with the court. It stressed, however, that the sanctions would not prevent it from carrying out its mandate.

Akane has emphasised that the court will continue to fulfil its mandate in accordance with the law and evidence, maintaining its independence and impartiality while pursuing justice for victims of serious international crimes.

The ICC described the US sanctions as an attack on the rule of law and the foundations of the international legal order. It called on its 125 member states to take practical steps to ensure the court can continue operating despite the restrictions.

The administration of US President Donald Trump announced the sanctions against the court as tensions escalated over its investigations and judicial actions involving US and Israeli officials. Washington has opposed the ICC’s exercise of jurisdiction in cases involving nationals of countries that are not parties to the Rome Statute, including the United States and Israel. The court’s actions relating to alleged crimes in Gaza have been a major source of friction.

The ICC stressed that defending its independence is not solely the court’s responsibility. It said member states must also support its continued operations to protect the international legal system and help ensure that those responsible for the gravest crimes are held accountable.