U.S. Sanctions ICC

The Trump administration imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court, blocking ICC assets under U.S. jurisdiction. The order also restricts U.S. people and businesses from transactions with the court. The administration says the move defends U.S. sovereignty because the United States never joined the Rome Statute and rejects ICC authority over Americans. It also objects to cases involving Israeli officials. The sanctions escalate a longer dispute after earlier U.S. sanctions on ICC personnel, Israeli arrest warrants and a closed Afghanistan investigation involving U.S. personnel. The ICC called the move an attack on justice, while allies reaffirmed support. Covered dealings get a six-month wind-down period. ICC President Tomoko Akane sought member-state help, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of possible further action.