WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump issued an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The sanctions are a response to the ICC’s arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump condemned the court’s actions, calling them “unjust and politically motivated” in his statement.
He argued the move threatens US allies and undermines global security.
Sovereignty and Security
Trump stated the ICC’s actions pose a risk to US sovereignty.
He warned that American military personnel could face wrongful prosecution.
The president said the order protects both US and Israeli interests.
He stressed the importance of defending allies against legal overreach.
Sanctions and Restrictions
The executive order authorizes strict penalties against ICC officials.
These include asset freezes and travel bans for court personnel and their families.
Trump justified the sanctions as necessary for national security.
His administration aims to prevent future ICC actions against the US and Israel.
Congress and Previous Legislation
In January, the House of Representatives passed a bill to penalize the ICC.
The Senate, however, failed to advance the measure on January 28.
Despite this, Trump moved forward with executive action.
His decision follows long-standing US opposition to ICC authority.
Warrants Against Israeli Leaders
The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant.
They are accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
The Hague-based court issued the warrants in November last year.
These charges have intensified global attention on Israel’s actions.
Israel’s Legal Challenges
Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.
The case is linked to its military campaign in Gaza.
International pressure on Israel has increased in recent months.
Israeli leaders strongly deny all accusations against them.
US and Israel Reject ICC
Trump reaffirmed that neither the US nor Israel recognizes ICC jurisdiction.
Both nations are not part of the Rome Statute governing the court.
Trump described the US and Israel as strong democracies with lawful military operations.
He asserted that the ICC has no authority over them.
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