**ICC Responds to US Sanctions Targeting Court Officials**
*Published on 18/08/2026 - 22:00 GMT+2*
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a strong rebuttal following the announcement of new sanctions by the United States against its president, Tomoko Akane, and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye. The sanctions, announced on Tuesday by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to challenge the ICC's authority and operations.
In a statement, the ICC condemned the sanctions, asserting that they "undermine the rule of law." The court emphasized that when judicial figures are threatened for executing their legal responsibilities, it jeopardizes the integrity of the international legal system. The ICC's response highlights its commitment to upholding legal standards despite external pressures.
Rubio characterized the ICC as a "corrupt and fatally politicised supranational court," accusing it of overstepping its mandate and abusing its authority. He claimed that the ICC has engaged in efforts to investigate and prosecute officials from countries that have not consented to its jurisdiction, including the United States. This accusation reflects longstanding tensions between the US and the ICC, particularly regarding the court's actions involving American personnel and its investigations into conflicts involving US allies.
The US has previously criticized the ICC for what it perceives as politically motivated actions, particularly its focus on Israel. The court issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November 2024 in relation to the Gaza conflict, a move that has drawn significant ire from Washington.
In July, the State Department outlined its intention to intensify efforts to "dismantle" the ICC, which may include further sanctions, visa revocations, and travel bans targeting ICC personnel. This announcement follows earlier sanctions imposed on various members of the court, including judges, signaling a sustained campaign against the institution.
The ICC's latest statement reflects its determination to maintain its judicial independence and authority in the face of external political pressures. The court's officials have consistently argued that their mandate is to pursue justice and accountability for serious international crimes, regardless of the nationality of the individuals involved.
As the situation develops, the implications of these sanctions for the ICC's operations and its relationship with the United States remain to be seen. The ongoing tension between the two entities underscores the complexities of international law and the challenges faced by institutions designed to uphold it.