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US Sanctions ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan
Background on the Sanctions
International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan has become the first individual targeted by economic and travel sanctions authorized by U.S. President Donald Trump. These measures are aimed at the ICC over its investigations involving U.S. citizens and allies.
Details of the Sanctions
- Freezing of U.S. assets belonging to Khan
- Travel restrictions barring Khan and his family from entering the U.S.
- A continuation of actions Trump first introduced during his previous term
ICC’s Response
The ICC strongly condemned the sanctions, reaffirming its commitment to justice for victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The court pledged to support its staff and continue its investigations.
Reason Behind the Sanctions
The move follows the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes allegations linked to the Gaza conflict. The U.S. and Israel argue that the ICC lacks jurisdiction, as neither country is a member of the court.
Global Reactions
- International Support for the ICC: 79 countries signed a joint letter criticizing the sanctions, emphasizing the importance of the court’s independence.
- United Nations Stance: The U.N. called for the U.S. to uphold its obligations under the Headquarters Agreement, which allows Khan to brief the Security Council on cases referred to the ICC.
- Human Rights Groups: Advocates expressed concerns that such sanctions could undermine global efforts to hold perpetrators of war crimes accountable.
Growing Tensions Between the U.S. and the ICC
This development has further strained relations between the United States and the ICC. Many international bodies and legal experts view the sanctions as an attack on the principles of global justice and accountability.
“US Sanctions ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan” “US Sanctions ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan”