Key takeaways from Trump's executive order:

• Trump sanctions ICC over alleged bias in investigating Israel.
• U.S. will face consequences for ICC's actions related to arrest warrants against Israeli leaders.
• Critics warn sanctions may hinder accountability and justice for human rights abuses.

In a significant move, President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) on February 6, which he accuses of pursuing "illegitimate and baseless actions" against the United States and its close ally, Israel. This executive action comes in response to the ICC's issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, over alleged war crimes linked to Israel's military actions in Gaza following a Hamas attack in October 2023.

According to the executive order, Trump aims to impose both financial and visa sanctions on any individuals who assist the ICC in its investigations against U.S. citizens or allies, elaborating that neither the U.S. nor Israel recognizes the court's jurisdiction. The order states, “The ICC has no jurisdiction over the United States or Israel,” and describes the court's recent actions as setting a “dangerous precedent” that could threaten American officials and compromise their national security efforts. This was highlighted in an earlier statement from the White House.

The ICC, based in The Hague, faced criticism from Trump, who characterized its warrant for Netanyahu as part of a series of "biased attacks" that could undermine Israel's right to self-defense amidst ongoing conflict. While pressing his point of view, Trump adds that contrary to the ICC’s portrayal, Israel maintains a strong democratic legal system capable of addressing alleged war crimes. The concerns are reinforced by various voices, including Human Rights Watch, arguing that such sanctions could chill the court's efforts and deter justice for victims of human rights abuses globally.

This latest executive order coincides with Netanyahu's visit to Washington, where he met Trump and numerous lawmakers, further solidifying U.S.-Israel ties amidst growing tensions. Recent polling and statements from lawmakers indicate bipartisan concerns regarding the implications of these ICC sanctions. Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent critic of the ICC, argues the institution has crossed a line by placing Israeli officials under scrutiny.

The U.S. has a complicated historical relationship with the ICC, a fact illustrated by its refusal to ratify the Rome Statute and past sanctions placed on ICC officials during Trump's first term. The renewed sanctions threaten the court’s operational integrity, particularly following previous challenges, including last year's cyberattack that temporarily crippled its operational abilities.

The Guardian, in a detailed report, states that these measures might seriously hinder the court’s ability to hold those accountable for war crimes, raising serious questions about the U.S.'s commitment to international justice.

As the international legal landscape evolves, the ongoing ramifications of Trump's latest order may significantly influence both U.S. foreign policy and the operations of global justice systems.

For more information, visit the original article from Le Monde.