USA Declares Crusade Against International Criminal Court
Translated from Polish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The U.S. announced a "crusade" against the International Criminal Court (ICC), expanding its actions against the Hague-based tribunal.
- Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declared the U.S. would take "unprecedented steps" against the ICC.
- The U.S. opposes ICC investigations into alleged American actions in Afghanistan and elsewhere.
The United States has declared a "crusade" against the International Criminal Court (ICC), signaling an escalation of its campaign against the Hague-based tribunal. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the U.S. would pursue "unprecedented steps" targeting the court and individuals involved in its proceedings.
This move comes as the ICC considers investigations into alleged actions by U.S. forces and intelligence agencies in Afghanistan. The U.S. has consistently opposed such probes, viewing them as an infringement on its sovereignty and the rights of its citizens. Pompeo asserted that the court's actions are a threat to American national security and its allies.
We will not stand by as the ICC engages in a sham investigation that targets Americans.
The U.S. has previously taken measures against the ICC, including sanctions against court officials. This latest declaration suggests a more aggressive and comprehensive strategy aimed at isolating and undermining the court's authority, particularly concerning its jurisdiction over non-member states like the United States.
We are prepared to take unprecedented steps to defend our people and our sovereignty.
Originally published by Gazeta Wyborcza in Polish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.