Lawmakers Call for Punitive Action Against International Criminal Court for Threatening American Interests

Lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle have united in their condemnation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) after its chief prosecutor sought arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders over the ongoing Gaza conflict. The move has sparked outrage among US senators, with calls for punitive action against the ICC.

According to Fox News, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of committing “war crimes and crimes against humanity” in the Palestinian enclave. He also sought arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders believed to be responsible for a recent attack that escalated tensions in the region.

In response, Republican and Democratic Senators Mike Rounds and Joe Manchin have called for a resolution urging President Joe Biden and Congress to impose financial sanctions and visa bans on ICC officials. They argue that the ICC’s actions constitute an “abuse of power” that threatens US interests and weakens US allies.

Rounds criticized the ICC for equating Hamas, a terrorist organization, with Israel, a democracy and US ally. He emphasized the need for the Senate to stand with Israel and reject the politicized proceedings of the ICC. Manchin echoed these sentiments, calling the ICC’s decision “shocking and disgraceful” and affirming Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats.

The bipartisan resolution, co-sponsored by 19 other senators, aims to send a strong message of support for Israel and push Washington’s allies to halt funding for the ICC. Meanwhile, House Republicans are also working on a bill to sanction the ICC, with House Speaker Mike Johnson urging the Biden administration to prevent the international body from targeting American political leaders, diplomats, and military personnel.

As tensions escalate over the ICC’s actions, lawmakers are united in their efforts to protect American interests and stand with Israel in the face of what they perceive as an unjust abuse of power. The resolution and potential sanctions signal a firm stance against the ICC’s actions and a commitment to upholding international law and defending US allies.