US unveils sanctions on ICC in move court condems as 'assault on rule of law'

In October 2026, the Trump administration announced new financial sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), escalating a long-standing dispute over the court's jurisdiction. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the measures are intended to protect U.S. sovereignty from a 'rogue' institution, citing past investigations into U.S. troops in Afghanistan and arrest warrants for Israeli officials. The ICC and several U.S. allies condemned the move as an assault on international law. The sanctions block ICC assets in U.S. jurisdictions and bar U.S. entities from transactions with the court, though a six-month grace period was provided to allow for potential negotiations.

In October 2026, the Trump administration announced new financial sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), escalating a long-standing dispute over the court's jurisdiction. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the measures are intended to protect U.S. sovereignty from a 'rogue' institution, citing past investigations into U.S. troops in Afghanistan and arrest warrants for Israeli officials. The ICC and several U.S. allies condemned the move as an assault on international law. The sanctions block ICC assets in U.S. jurisdictions and bar U.S. entities from transactions with the court, though a six-month grace period was provided to allow for potential negotiations.