U.S. House Sanctions ICC Over Arrest Warrants for Israeli Leaders

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 243-140 to approve the "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act," imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its arrest warrants targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The sanctions aim to block actions against U.S. citizens or allies, including Israel, who are not ICC members.

Forty-five Democrats joined 198 Republicans in supporting the bill, which prohibits investigations, arrests, or prosecutions by the ICC. Representative Brian Mast, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, defended the move, calling the ICC a "kangaroo court" for pursuing Israel’s leaders over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

The ICC criticized the sanctions, stating they undermine its judicial independence and deny justice to victims of international atrocities. Previously, during Donald Trump's administration, sanctions targeted ICC officials over investigations into U.S. actions in Afghanistan. President Joe Biden later lifted these sanctions but expressed willingness to reconsider them following ICC arrest warrant requests for Israeli officials.

The bill's broad language could sanction individuals supporting ICC investigations, according to international law expert Milena Sterio. ICC President Tomoko Akane warned the measures could jeopardize the court’s operations and existence.

The ICC defends its decision to issue warrants based on evidence and its mandate to prevent ongoing crimes. Congressional Republicans have strongly opposed the ICC since it accused Netanyahu and Gallant of war crimes amid the Gaza conflict. The Senate is expected to advance the bill swiftly for Trump’s signature after his inauguration.

The ICC, a permanent body, prosecutes war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. Israel denies the allegations, maintaining its military actions comply with international law.