THE HAGUE: The International Criminal Court (ICC) rejected US sanctions against the institution on Friday, accusing Washington of attempting to obstruct justice and pledging to continue its judicial work independently.
The court said the new measures targeted its operations after Washington had already sanctioned 13 judges and prosecutors.
In its statement, the ICC described the sanctions as an attack on the rule of law. It accused the United States of seeking to intimidate court personnel and those cooperating with its investigations.
ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane pledged that the institution would continue its work with “independence and impartiality”. She said the court would base its decisions on law and evidence while pursuing justice for victims of serious international crimes.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the sanctions, citing President Donald Trump’s opposition to the court exercising jurisdiction over Americans.
Rubio warned that Washington would take further action unless the ICC stopped what he described as threats against the United States. The court rejected that position, arguing that its judicial mandate must remain free from political pressure.
Established under an international treaty, the ICC has 125 states parties and investigates genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.
Read: US ICC Sanctions Plan Targets Entire Court, Sources Say
It also serves as a court of last resort when national judicial systems cannot or will not genuinely pursue serious international crimes. However, the institution warned that the sanctions could interfere with its ability to function.
ICC officials urged member states to provide practical support and ensure the court retained the resources needed to continue its investigations and prosecutions.
The court maintained that judicial officials should not face punishment for carrying out their responsibilities under international law.
