Netherlands throws support behind ICC after US sanctions chief Akane

BRUSSELS (Kyodo) -- Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen declared his country's unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its efforts towards justice as President Donald Trump escalates pressure on the organization. This announcement came after Berendsen met with ICC President Tomoko Akane, the first Japanese national to head the Hague-based judicial body.

Akane, who has faced sanctions from the Trump administration for allegedly overstepping state sovereignty, received Berendsen's commendation for her leadership and the value of their close cooperation. The Dutch Foreign Minister emphasized that the Netherlands, as both the host nation and a state party, firmly backs the ICC's crucial role in international justice.

During their meeting, both parties discussed collective efforts to defend justice and the rule of law. In response, the ICC expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' strong support. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both voiced their serious concern over the sanctions, stating that ICC judges and officials must be able to act independently and without external pressure. The Netherlands is one of the 27 members of the European Union.