Story perspectives

U.S. Sanctions ICC Judges Over Gaza War Crimes Ruling

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

The United States imposed sanctions on ICC judges Gocha Lordkipanidze and Erdenebalsuren Damdin.
The sanctions target the judges' rejection of Israel's Gaza war crimes appeal.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the judges acted without consent.
The ICC condemned the sanctions as a flagrant attack on judicial independence and pledged to continue its mandate.
The court has faced ongoing sanctions since February, impacting its officials.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. has historically opposed the International Criminal Court (ICC), beginning with the 2002 American Service-Members' Protection Act, which aimed to shield U.S. citizens from ICC jurisdiction. Recent sanctions against ICC judges Gocha Lordkipanidze and Erdenebalsuren Damdin reflect ongoing tensions, particularly after the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials in November 2024, raising concerns about judicial independence and political influence.

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Story summary

The United States imposed sanctions on ICC judges Gocha Lordkipanidze and Erdenebalsuren Damdin.
The sanctions target the judges' rejection of Israel's Gaza war crimes appeal.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the judges acted without consent.
The ICC condemned the sanctions as a flagrant attack on judicial independence and pledged to continue its mandate.
The court has faced ongoing sanctions since February, impacting its officials.

1 / 2