The United Nations Human Rights Office, the European Union and the International Criminal Court have condemned the latest sanctions imposed by the United States on senior ICC officials, warning that the measures could undermine the court’s independence and ability to pursue justice.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described the sanctions as “unacceptable” and called for their immediate withdrawal.
The latest measures target ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane and Senior Trial Lawyer Abdoulaye Seye.
Türk urged countries to defend international institutions established to uphold human rights and the rule of law, while protecting court officials targeted by what he described as reprisals.
The European Union also expressed “unwavering support” for the Hague-based court, saying it deeply regretted Washington’s latest action.
The bloc described the ICC as a cornerstone of the global fight against impunity and stressed that its independence, impartiality and ability to carry out its mandate must remain free from pressure, intimidation or interference.
The EU further warned that sanctions against the court and its officials could undermine their work, while pledging continued support for ICC personnel facing external pressure or threats.
The Trump administration has now sanctioned nine of the ICC’s 18 judges, both deputy prosecutors, the former prosecutor and one staff member.
In a separate statement, the ICC described the latest designations as “a flagrant attack” on the independence of an impartial judicial institution established by its member states.
The court said threats and coercive measures could affect victims’ ability to seek justice, particularly those who turn to the ICC after exhausting other avenues for accountability.
The ICC said it remained firmly committed to protecting its personnel and supporting victims of serious atrocities, insisting that it would continue to carry out its mandate independently and impartially.
