ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Appeal Denied, Suspension Upheld

International Criminal Court chief prosecutor Karim Khan, a 56‑year‑old British lawyer, has lost his appeal to lift an interim suspension imposed by the UK Bar Standards Board (BSB). The BSB, which regulates barristers, confirmed the suspension remains in place while the misconduct investigation proceeds.

Khan was initially suspended on 8 June over sexual‑misconduct allegations, a move that has intensified a crisis at the war‑crimes court, which is also subject to U.S. sanctions linked to its investigations of the United States and Israel. Supporters claim the disciplinary action is politically motivated because Khan has sought arrest warrants for Israeli officials over the war in Gaza.

The BSB said the suspension will continue until a disciplinary tribunal reaches a decision, leaving the ICC without its chief prosecutor during a period of heightened scrutiny of its work.