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International Criminal Court prepares for potential US sanctions
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is implementing defensive measures to safeguard its operations against potential new sanctions from the United States. Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan confirmed that the court is preparing for possible restrictions that could target the institution as a whole, rather than just individual officials.
To mitigate these risks, the ICC has transitioned its office software from Microsoft to the German open-source solution OpenDesk. The court has also taken steps to secure its financial continuity, including making arrangements for banking, health insurance, and payroll. In some instances, staff members have received salary payments several months in advance to prevent disruption.
This escalation follows intense criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has labeled the ICC 'illegitimate' and called for member states to withdraw. While the U.S. has already sanctioned 13 ICC officials, new proposed measures could include broad financial restrictions aimed at the entire institution.
In response, European Council President António Costa affirmed that the European Union will defend the independence and integrity of the ICC, stating that supporting international law is a responsibility rather than an option. Meanwhile, countries like Senegal have maintained their commitment to the Rome Statute despite the geopolitical pressure.
Entities
António Costa · Donald Trump · European Council · International Criminal Court · Nazhat Shameem Khan
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Donald Trump called the ICC 'illegitimate' and urged member states to withdraw from the court. senego.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The US administration has already sanctioned 13 ICC officials, including nine of the 18 judges. www.mesazhi.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Some ICC employees have received their salaries several months in advance to mitigate financial disruption. congorassure.cd · www.mesazhi.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The ICC has taken measures to protect its operations from potential US sanctions. congorassure.cd · www.mesazhi.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] ICC officials have heard rumors of new US sanctions but have not received official notification. congorassure.cd · www.mesazhi.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The ICC has replaced Microsoft office software with the German open-source solution OpenDesk. congorassure.cd · www.mesazhi.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Proposed US sanctions may target the ICC as a global entity, potentially restricting financial transactions. senego.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] European Council President António Costa stated the EU will defend the independence of the ICC. informim.net