The House approved a bill on June 4 that would impose sanctions on individuals who assist the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that the White House opposes. The decision was made in response to the ICC’s announcement of seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials.
The bill, known as the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, was introduced by Reps. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and Chip Roy (R-Texas). It allows the United States to impose sanctions on foreign individuals who aid the ICC in investigating, arresting, detaining, or prosecuting protected persons.
ICC prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan disclosed on May 20 the court’s intention to seek arrest warrants for Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas leaders for alleged war crimes following a terrorist attack by Hamas against Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
If enacted, the bill would also empower the president to sanction individuals acting for or on behalf of those involved in ICC activities. Sanctions must be imposed within 60 days of the legislation’s enactment and continuously if the ICC continues its actions against protected persons.
The bill also prohibits sanctioned individuals from entering or remaining in the United States. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed willingness to collaborate with Congress on a legislative response to the ICC’s actions during a Senate hearing on May 21.
Despite the House’s approval, the White House has voiced opposition to the bill, citing concerns about potential sanctions against court staff, judges, witnesses, and U.S. allies. Both Israeli and Hamas officials have criticized the ICC’s decision, with Hamas justifying its actions as “armed resistance.”
While the administration and members of Congress from both parties have condemned the ICC’s move, the White House suggests alternative approaches to defend Israel and uphold U.S. positions on the ICC.
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