Trump Set to Impose Comprehensive Sanctions on ICC, Threatening to Paralyse War Crimes Court

The administration of US President Donald Trump is preparing to expand its attacks on the International Criminal Court (ICC). Washington is reportedly preparing sanctions that target the entire ICC institution, rather than just specific judges or prosecutors.

Two sources familiar with the plan told Reuters that the sanctions have been prepared and could be announced in the near future. The Wall Street Journal reported that the decision could even be finalised this week, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly.

The exact timing of the announcement remains unknown, and the US Department of State has not yet responded to the reports. If implemented, this move would represent a significant escalation in the Trump administration’s pressure on the Hague-based institution.

The Associated Press (AP) reported that US officials have informed the Netherlands that potentially paralysing sanctions are imminent; this was disclosed to AP by diplomatic and government officials aware of the briefing, speaking on condition of anonymity. The Netherlands is currently seeking ways to help the court continue paying staff salaries and witness protection costs, as well as ensuring the security of detention facilities remains undisturbed.

Washington has previously imposed sanctions on dozens of active and former staff members—including half of the court’s sitting judges—as part of what Secretary of State Marco Rubio described as a