UN Chief Condemns US Sanctions Against ICC Over Justice Concerns

The United Nations criticized US sanctions against the International Criminal Court as international opposition grew after Washington targeted the tribunal. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres raised concerns about the measures' impact on the court's role in pursuing international criminal justice.

Stephane Dujarric, the UN secretary-general's spokesman, said Guterres was concerned about the consequences of the sanctions and reaffirmed support for the ICC's independence.

"Deeply alarmed by the expected impact" was the assessment conveyed by Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-general's spokesman.

Dujarric also described the sanctions as affecting a key institution for accountability efforts. He said Guterres continued to support the court and its officials.

"Today's decision marks a serious blow to our collective pursuit of international criminal justice, of which the ICC is a key pillar" said Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-general's spokesman.

"Unwavering support for the independence of the Court and its officials" said Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-general's spokesman, describing Guterres' position on the tribunal.

The reaction from the UN followed criticism from several US allies, including the European Union and countries such as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Japan. Spain also opposed the measures, while Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen pointed to the six-month period before sanctions take effect.

"Creates scope for dialogue" said Tom Berendsen, Dutch Foreign Minister, referring to the period before the measures are implemented.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot called for European action to protect the court, while German Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig criticized the decision's implications for international criminal law.

"Utterly staggering" said Stefanie Hubig, the German Justice Minister, describing the move by the United States.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces an ICC arrest warrant, supported the US decision and criticized the court.

"A political body that poses a mortal threat to law-abiding democracies" said Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, describing the ICC.