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Why is the ICC under crisis now?
The ICC is experiencing a crisis due to US sanctions that target its staff, including judges and prosecutors involved in sensitive investigations. Internal probes into the court’s leadership and member withdrawals, such as Hungary’s refusal to arrest Israeli officials despite ICC warrants, further complicate its operations. These issues threaten the court’s independence and effectiveness.
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How do US sanctions impact the ICC’s work?
US sanctions restrict the ICC’s ability to work by targeting staff members and freezing assets, which hampers investigations and court proceedings. Since the ICC relies on member states for arrests and cooperation, US sanctions create significant obstacles, especially in high-profile cases involving US or Israeli officials.
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What does this mean for ongoing investigations?
Ongoing investigations into war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other serious offenses face delays and challenges due to US sanctions and internal disputes. The court’s ability to pursue justice is strained, raising concerns about accountability for those accused of serious crimes.
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Can the ICC survive US pressure?
While the ICC has shown resilience, ongoing US sanctions and political pressures pose serious threats to its future. The court’s independence is being tested, and its ability to operate effectively depends on support from member states and the international community’s commitment to justice.
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What are the broader implications for international justice?
The crisis at the ICC highlights the vulnerabilities of international justice institutions in a geopolitically tense world. If the court’s work is undermined, it could weaken global efforts to hold perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity accountable, impacting the rule of law worldwide.