EU vows to protect ICC from US sanctions as governments rally behind court

The United States has taken significant steps to undermine the International Criminal Court (ICC), with President Donald Trump's administration now threatening to dismantle the institution unless its concerns are addressed. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions on Friday, asserting that Washington would impede transactions with the court and withhold resources deemed a threat to American sovereignty and national security.

Rubio warned that either the ICC must cease its threats, or the United States will dismantle it, urging US allies to intervene. The Trump administration argues that the Hague-based court has overstepped its mandate by seeking jurisdiction over American personnel and Israeli leaders. Despite previous diplomatic efforts falling short, the administration proceeded with the measures, hoping to negotiate a diplomatic settlement.

The sanctions could severely impact the court's operations by restricting access to services provided by companies under US jurisdiction, including financial, insurance, and technology services. However, certain exemptions exist, such as telecommunications, software, and pension payments. The United States, which is not a member of the ICC, has long opposed the court's authority over American nationals without consent.

The sanctions also reflect objections to ICC investigations involving US military personnel and arrest warrants issued for Israeli officials. The court maintains jurisdiction in specific cases involving crimes committed on member states' territory, even when the accused are nationals of non-member countries.