트럼프가 제재한 국제형사재판소 소장 “상황 심각…법치 종말 위기”

Donald Trump's administration imposed sanctions on ICC chief Akane Do momoko, a Japanese national, expressing serious concerns about the situation. In a phone interview with NHK, Akane stated that he was not the one at fault for facing sanctions but the task given to him as an ICC judge. The crisis is intensifying, according to Akane.

Earlier this month, the Trump administration designated Akane and Ahmed Ze in the ICC's legal team as sanctioned targets, which means that they, their families, and US entry are essentially banned. US assets are frozen, credit cards may no longer be used, and Americans may lose access to US businesses' services. The ICC's investigation into the war crimes and crimes against humanity allegations in Gaza last year and the recent attack on a primary school in Iran during the initial stages of the US-Israel-Iran war is being observed as attempts to neutralize the inquiry.

The US and Israel have subjected their political figures and military officials to investigations and indictments by the ICC, which some argue constitutes an abuse of authority. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the ICC as a "corrupt and seriously politicized supranational court" and even called for its "systematic dismantling."

Many other countries have also withdrawn from or suspended their contributions to the ICC. The US government has continued its pressure campaign, sanctioning four ICC judges last year. The ICC responded with a statement that 9 out of the 18 judges had faced sanctions, including 2 examining magistrates, a former chief prosecutor, and a prosecuting staff member.

The ICC warns that if judicial officials face threats based on their application of international law, it could endanger the entire international legal order. The US government's interference could potentially paralyze the institution, as funding for national contributions would be cut, personnel salaries would be impossible to pay, and investigations and trials could effectively cease.

There is also the threat of sensitive information being leaked if the US government blocks the ICT's systems through its IT companies. Akane Do momoko has expressed his expectation of US sanctions through his published book, stating that the important thing is not whether the ICC will be dismantled, but that the crisis of "international rule of law" is being created.

Akane has criticized Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for his passive stance on the matter and urged other lawmakers and the Japanese public to express their dissatisfaction.