Trump Sanctions Cripple ICC Operations Amid Israel War Crimes Probe

Last Updated May - 15 - 2025, 02:11 PM | Source : Fela News

U.S. sanctions on ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan have frozen assets, cut communications, and stalled war crimes investigations, as NGOs and allies withdraw sup

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is struggling to function after the U.S. President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, in February. These sanctions have frozen Khan’s bank accounts, cut off his Microsoft email access, and barred ICC staff from entering the U.S. American ICC employees have been warned they risk arrest if they return home, prompting several senior staff to resign. NGOs and contractors, vital to the ICC's operations, have also distanced themselves due to fears of U.S. retaliation. Microsoft cancelled Khan’s email, and NGOs have moved funds from U.S. banks fearing seizure.

The sanctions followed ICC arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza—charges Israel denies. Trump called the ICC’s actions illegitimate and dangerous to U.S. sovereignty.

The sanctions have disrupted multiple investigations, including a stalled probe into atrocities in Sudan. U.S. staff like prosecutor Eric Iverson are suing the Trump administration, claiming the sanctions violate free expression.

Support for the ICC is declining; some European countries have refused to enforce its warrants. Meanwhile, Khan faces internal scrutiny over sexual misconduct allegations, which he denies. A U.N. investigation is ongoing amid claims he retaliated against whistleblowers.