Qatar Accused of Deploying Spies to Discredit Woman Alleging Sexual Harassment Against ICC Prosecutor
THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Qatari high-ranking diplomats allegedly commissioned private intelligence firms to investigate and potentially discredit a woman who accused International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan of sexual harassment and abuse of power, according to a report published by The Guardian. The operation reportedly aimed to find a link between the woman and Israel, potentially undermining her credibility as she pursued allegations against Khan, who has as temporarily stepped down amid a UN investigation.
The private intelligence firm Highgate, in collaboration with at least one other company, was tasked with “tying up loose ends” and establishing a connection between the accuser and Israel, sources familiar with the firms’ activities told The Guardian. The woman, a lawyer in her thirties, alleges coercive sexual behavior and abuse of power by Khan, including incidents occurring in hotel rooms during business trips, at his ICC office, and his home. she expressed horror at the alleged surveillance, stating, “The idea that private intelligence firms have been instructed to target me is as disturbing as it is horrific.”
The allegations against Khan prompted his temporary resignation in December 2023, pending a UN investigation. A second woman subsequently came forward in August 2023, alleging mistreatment by Khan during an unpaid internship earlier in her career.
Highgate confirmed to The Guardian that it worked on an ICC-related operation but denied targeting any individual or receiving funding or direction from the Qatari government. The Qatari government has not yet publicly responded to the allegations.
The ICC is currently investigating potential war crimes committed in Gaza, and has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant. The timing of the alleged Qatari-backed operation raises questions about potential attempts to influence the ICC’s investigations and deflect scrutiny from individuals facing potential prosecution.