U.S. Sanctions Hit ICC Figures Amid Tensions Over Israeli Prosecution

The United States, under President Donald Trump, imposed sanctions on key figures from the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday. This move is a reaction to the ICC's legal actions targeting Israeli leaders, which has escalated tensions between Washington and the war tribunal.

Those sanctioned include Judge Nicolas Yann Guillou and deputy prosecutors Nazhat Shameem Khan and Mame Mandiaye Niang, alongside judge Kimberly Prost. Washington's Treasury and State Departments accused the ICC judges and prosecutors of pursuing what they termed illegitimate actions concerning Israel and the U.S.

The ICC faces criticism from several nations, including the U.S. and Israel, who are not members of the court. The institution was established in 2002 to address severe international crimes. In response to the U.S. penalties, the ICC reiterated its commitment to independence and continued its investigations into high-profile conflicts globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)