ICC Reacts Strongly to US Sanctions on Judges and Prosecutors

The International Criminal Court (ICC) strongly condemned the US government's decision to impose sanctions on Canadian judge Kimberly Prost, French judge Nicolas Guillou, Fijian Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Han, and Senegalese Deputy Prosecutor Mame Mandiaye Niang. The ICC stated that the sanctions on certain judges and deputy prosecutors involved in the Palestinian investigation due to their 'anti-Israel stance' were deemed as a clear attack on the independent judiciary. The ICC emphasized its unwavering support for its staff and victims, stating that the sanctions constituted an insult to the member states, the rules-based international order, and, most importantly, millions of innocent victims worldwide. The statement called on all those who share the values of the member states and uphold the principles of humanity and the rule of law to provide strong and consistent support for the Court and the work carried out in the interests of the victims of international crimes. Referring to previous statements by the ICC President, the Judges' Assembly, and the Assembly of States Parties, the commitment to protect the rights of victims was reiterated. The sanctions imposed by the US on the ICC came after arrest warrants were issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and in February, Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, and in June, 4 judges were included in the sanctions list.