Trump Imposes Sanctions on ICC Following Netanyahu Arrest Warrant

President Donald Trump took decisive action on Thursday by signing an executive order aimed at sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC). This move aligns with the court’s recent May 2024 arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Details of the Sanctions

The executive order introduces financial sanctions and visa restrictions targeting ICC officials and their family members. These measures primarily affect those who support ICC investigations against U.S. citizens and their allies.

Broadening the Executive Actions

In addition to the sanctions against the ICC, the White House announced further actions. An executive directive directed the Justice Department to create a task force dedicated to addressing what the administration describes as “anti-Christian bias.” Furthermore, a review of all non-governmental organizations receiving federal funds is now underway.

Understanding the ICC’s Role

The ICC is an independent international organization headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. Established under the Rome Statute, which came into effect in 2002, the court addresses serious global issues such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.

U.S. Position on ICC Jurisdiction

According to the Trump administration, the U.S. and Israel should not fall under the ICC’s jurisdiction. The White House argues that the court undermines U.S. sovereignty and constitutional protections. Additionally, accusations of politicization emphasize the ICC’s perceived bias against Israel, particularly in contrast to its treatment of other nations like Iran.

The Background of the Arrest Warrant

Netanyahu is not the only figure facing legal challenges from the ICC. In May 2024, Prosecutor Karim Khan issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, who was dismissed in November 2024. These warrants could facilitate their arrest in any of the 124 countries party to the Rome Statute, including major European nations.

Warrants Against Hamas Leaders

In a related development, the ICC also issued arrest warrants for Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, and Mohammed Deif, all of whom have reportedly been killed by Israeli forces. Khan justified these warrants by citing war crimes, including murder and hostage-taking, stemming from the October 7, 2023, attacks against Israel.

War Crimes Allegations Against Israeli Leaders

Simultaneously, Khan stated that Israeli leaders face allegations of war crimes, such as directing attacks against civilians and inflicting starvation on communities. The ongoing legal and military tensions highlight the complexities surrounding international accountability.

Previous Legislative Actions

Earlier in January, after Trump’s inauguration, the House of Representatives also passed legislation to impose sanctions on the ICC. However, this measure did not progress in the Senate before its failure on January 28.

Trump’s Continued Support for Netanyahu

In a recent White House visit, Trump reaffirmed his support for Netanyahu, endorsing him as the “right leader” for Israel. During the meeting, Trump announced plans to revive his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, as well as intentions to rebuild Gaza.

A Strong Alliance

Both leaders expressed mutual respect and camaraderie during the visit. Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership, stating, “We’ve been friends for a long time,” and emphasized their shared commitment to Israel.

In turn, Netanyahu reciprocated Trump’s admiration, referring to him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.” This portrait of friendship reflects the enduring alliance between the U.S. and Israel.

Sanctions History with the ICC

This isn’t Trump’s first encounter with the ICC. In 2020, he sanctioned ICC officials by imposing asset freezes and banning family entries due to an investigation into U.S. actions in Afghanistan. The current sanctions mark an escalation in the administration’s stance toward the court.

Fox News’ Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.