Written By Lisa Murimi
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has pledged to continue its judicial work despite sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump.
The executive order targets ICC officials and their families, citing “illegitimate and baseless actions” against the US and Israel.
The ICC defended its role, stating it remains committed to delivering justice for victims of atrocities worldwide.
The court condemned the sanctions as an attack on its impartiality and independence.
Trump’s order follows the ICC’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a Hamas commander over alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Both Israel and the US deny the charges and are not members of the ICC.
The Netherlands, home to the ICC, criticized the sanctions, emphasizing the court’s essential role in combating impunity.
Other nations, including South Africa and Malaysia, have formed a coalition to defend the court’s authority.
This move echoes past tensions, as the Trump administration previously sanctioned ICC officials investigating alleged war crimes by US forces in Afghanistan—a decision reversed by President Joe Biden.
Despite international backlash, the ICC remains resolute, vowing to uphold justice regardless of political pressure.
