The U.S. House of Representatives passed the "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act," sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC) over its arrest warrants for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. The bipartisan move aims to protect U.S. allies from ICC actions. The ICC warns this could undermine justice for atrocity victims globally.
The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a former defense minister over their roles in Israel's Gaza operations. The "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act" passed with a 243-140 majority, receiving bipartisan support as 45 Democrats joined 198 Republicans in favor.
The legislation aims to penalize any foreign entity investigating, arresting, or prosecuting U.S. citizens or allies, including Israel, who are not ICC members. Representative Brian Mast, a Republican, described the ICC as a "kangaroo court" targeting Israel's leadership.
The ICC responded with concern, warning the move could undermine justice for atrocity victims worldwide. The court condemned threats to its independence, emphasizing the potential harm to its operations and mandate.
The sanctions debate reflects the U.S.'s evolving stance on the ICC. While former President Donald Trump’s administration imposed sanctions on the court in 2020 over war crimes investigations in Afghanistan, these were later lifted by President Joe Biden. However, Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated last year that new sanctions could be reconsidered following the ICC prosecutor's actions against Israeli leaders.
The ICC, established to prosecute war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression, has faced criticism and challenges to its authority. Its president recently warned that such measures could jeopardize its existence and global operations.
