ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Suspended Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

The International Criminal Court (ICC) suspended its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, with immediate effect after allegations of sexual assault were raised against him. The bureau of the Assembly of States Parties adopted the suspension by a qualified majority of its 21 members, emphasizing that the measure is precautionary and does not indicate any conclusion about the eventual outcome of the internal investigation.

Khan, a 55‑year‑old British magistrate who has led the ICC prosecutor’s office since June 2021, had already taken a temporary leave from his duties in May 2025 to prepare a defence against the accusations made by a colleague. During his tenure he oversaw high‑profile cases, including the pending trial of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity and the issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli officials Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

The suspension adds to a period of heightened political pressure on the court, which faces scrutiny from member states and recent sanctions imposed by the United States. The bureau stated that the 125 member states will be informed and will review the situation as the investigation proceeds.