Washington, Feb 07 (V7N) – US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The order, which was confirmed by a US official, will impose economic and visa sanctions on individuals who cooperate with ICC investigations targeting US citizens and US allies, along with their families.

Trump’s Statement on ICC

President Trump strongly criticized the ICC, calling it "illegal" and accusing the court of engaging in “baseless actions” aimed at targeting the United States and its close ally, Israel.

"The ICC is illegal. It is taking baseless actions targeting the United States and our close ally Israel," Trump said after signing the executive order.

Sanctions and Their Impact

Under the new executive order, those who assist the ICC in its investigation against US citizens and allied nations will face sanctions, along with their families. The sanctions include economic penalties and visa restrictions. The order expresses concern that the ICC’s actions put Americans at risk, potentially leading to harassment, mistreatment, and arrest of US citizens involved in international matters.

ICC's Allegations Against Israel

The ICC has been in the spotlight recently, having issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in November over alleged war crimes during operations in Gaza. Israel has rejected the ICC's accusations and has not recognized the court's jurisdiction in this matter.

Republican Backlash and Previous Sanctions

The decision follows a broader Republican push to challenge the ICC’s authority. Just last week, Democrats in the US Senate blocked a Republican-backed resolution aiming to impose sanctions on the ICC in response to its investigation into Netanyahu. The resolution had been introduced by Republicans protesting the ICC's arrest warrants.

In the past, Donald Trump had also imposed sanctions on the ICC, specifically on its officials in The Hague, Netherlands, over investigations into alleged war crimes by US military forces in Afghanistan. These sanctions were later lifted by former President Joe Biden.

Growing Tensions Over ICC's Authority

Trump’s latest move signals his continued defiance against the ICC’s authority. The international court has faced significant criticism from the US and other countries, particularly over its actions concerning war crimes allegations and its perceived bias against certain nations. With the signing of this executive order, the ongoing tension between the US and the ICC is likely to continue, especially as international scrutiny over US foreign policy persists.

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