US President Donald Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) has sparked widespread backlash from member states and rights groups.
The sanctions target the ICC and its employees over their pursuit of charges against Israeli officials, which Trump labelled as "malign conduct."
The Netherlands expressed regret over the move, with Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp calling the court’s work "essential in the fight against impunity."
He stated, "The Netherlands actively contributes to strengthening the international legal order and multilateral cooperation and will, in good faith, fulfil binding international law and treaty obligations."
Amnesty International's Secretary-General, Agnes Callamard, strongly condemned the decision, calling it "reckless," "vindictive," and "aggressive."
Also read: US hits ICC with sanctions for issuing warrant against Netanyahu
She criticised Trump's action as undermining the ICC’s "independent pursuit of international justice."
“This reckless action sends the message that Israel is above the law and the universal principles of international justice. It suggests that President Trump endorses the Israeli government’s crimes and is embracing impunity,” Callamard remarked.
She further stated, “The United States is ready to punish an institution that ensures the individuals most responsible for committing atrocities cannot escape justice. No one responsible for crimes under international law should be protected or aided in attempts to escape accountability, least of all with the US government’s assistance based on political alliances.”
Callamard urged global governments and regional organisations to take swift, collective action to block the effect of Trump's sanctions.
"Through concerted efforts, ICC member states can protect the court and its staff. Urgent action is needed like never before,” she concluded.
Also read: US slaps fresh sanctions on Iran, targets oil network revenue
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