ALBAWABA - US President Donald Trump's move to penalize the court has been condemned by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has called it an assault on international justice. Although European officials cautioned that the decision erodes the rule of law, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu applauded the action.
Citing the ICC's investigation into suspected war crimes committed by the US and Israel, Trump issued an executive order on Thursday putting sanctions on the organization. He proclaimed a "national emergency" to combat what he called a danger to American sovereignty and accused the ICC of "illegitimate and unfounded actions," specifically targeting Israel.
In response, the ICC reaffirmed its commitment to justice and called on the international community and member nations to oppose the penalties together. It promised to shield its employees from any reprisals.
Trump's decision to protect Israel and the United States against what he called a "corrupt and biased" organization was hailed by Netanyahu as a "bold and necessary step." He reaffirmed that the ICC had "no jurisdiction" over Israeli acts and accused the court of engaging in a legal and political war against Israel.
Strong opposition to the penalties was voiced by European leaders. António Costa, president of the European Council, cautioned that attacking the ICC compromises its autonomy and jeopardizes the larger international justice system.
The ICC's home country of the Netherlands also denounced the action. According to Foreign Minister Kaspar Veldkamp, the court is essential in the battle against war crimes and crimes against humanity impunity.
Those aiding ICC investigations against the United States and its allies, particularly Israel, are the targets of the penalties. Affected persons and their families are prohibited from entering the United States, and assets are frozen inside the nation.
The ICC has previously taken preventative steps, such prepaying staff wages, to offset any possible budgetary constraints. Prior to this, ICC President Tomoko Akane issued a warning that penalties may "jeopardize the court’s operations and threaten its existence."
