Trump sanctions International Criminal Court, calls it ‘illegitimate’

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order sanctioning the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it “illegitimate and baseless” in its actions against the U.S. and its ally, Israel.

This move imposes financial and visa restrictions on individuals assisting ICC investigations into American citizens or allies.

The decision follows ICC-issued warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a Hamas commander over alleged war crimes in Gaza, accusations both Israel and Netanyahu deny.

Trump’s executive order claims the ICC’s actions set “a dangerous precedent,” threatening U.S. sovereignty and national security.

The Netherlands, home to the ICC, expressed “regret” over Trump’s actions, with Dutch officials affirming the court’s critical role in pursuing justice against impunity for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.

Although not a member of the ICC, the U.S. has long rejected the court’s jurisdiction, citing concerns over its potential interference with U.S. and Israeli policies. This stance echoes Trump’s previous sanctions on ICC officials probing U.S. actions in Afghanistan, which President Joe Biden later reversed.

The controversy intensifies as Trump announces a provocative plan for Gaza: U.S. governance of the territory post-conflict, resettling its Palestinian population, and transforming it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.”

Critics, including Arab leaders and the United Nations, have condemned the idea, raising questions about its feasibility and humanitarian impact.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has commended Trump’s measures, calling the Gaza plan “remarkable” and reiterating Israel’s support.

The ICC, with backing from countries like the Netherlands and South Africa, faces mounting challenges to its authority amidst the growing geopolitical tensions.