What's happened
Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, will undergo an external investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. The Assembly of States Parties announced the inquiry following a brief internal probe that raised concerns about its impartiality. Khan has denied the allegations and will remain in his role during the investigation.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, the Assembly of States Parties emphasized the need for a 'fully independent, impartial and fair process' in the investigation of Karim Khan. The article highlights that Khan's lawyers have categorically denied the allegations, which include claims of unwanted sexual touching and abuse of authority. The Independent notes that the internal inquiry was closed quickly, raising concerns about its thoroughness and independence. Both sources indicate that the investigation's timing is critical, given the ICC's ongoing work related to alleged war crimes in Gaza, suggesting that external political pressures may be at play.
How we got here
The investigation follows allegations against Khan regarding inappropriate conduct towards a female aide. These claims surfaced amid ongoing tensions related to the ICC's prosecution of Israeli officials for alleged war crimes in Gaza, raising concerns about external influences on the court.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The International Criminal Court is an intergovernmental organization and international tribunal that sits in The Hague, Netherlands.