U.S. Weighs Sanctions Against International Criminal Court in Escalation of “Legal Warfare”
WASHINGTON D.C. – September 22, 2025, 8:53 p.m. – The Trump management is reportedly considering imposing sanctions on the entire International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that could severely disrupt the court’s operations. Six sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that a decision on the measures is expected imminently, representing a significant escalation from previously targeted sanctions against individual ICC prosecutors and judges.
“The instrument of individual sanctions is exhausted,” stated a high-ranking diplomat. “It is now more about the when than about the next step.” The U.S. State Department has indicated further measures are under consideration without providing specifics.
The potential sanctions stem from longstanding U.S. criticism of the ICC, established in 2002. Senator Marco Rubio has labeled the court a “threat too national security,” alleging it is used as an instrument for “legal warfare” (“Lawfare”) against the U.S. and its ally, Israel.
The ICC’s recent application for arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin netanyahu, former Defense Minister Joaw Galant, and leaders of Hamas, related to alleged crimes during the Gaza War, has further inflamed tensions.The court’s assertion of jurisdiction over alleged crimes in Palestinian territory - recognizing Palestine as a member state – is rejected by both the United States and Israel, neither of which are parties to the ICC. germany is among the 125 member states.
Sanctions targeting the ICC as a whole could jeopardize its core functions, impacting employee salaries, banking access, and essential software. Sources indicate ICC staff have already received accelerated payment for the remainder of 2025 in anticipation of potential disruptions. The court is actively seeking option banking and software providers, and internal crisis meetings have been held to assess potential consequences, according to insiders.
