US imposes sanctions on ICC judges over investigations against Israel

On June 5, 2025, the United States Department of State announced sanctions against four judges of the International Criminal Court, including individuals from Benin, Peru, Slovenia, and Uganda. The sanctions were instituted in light of the ICC's investigations into alleged war crimes committed by Israeli officials during the conflict with Hamas and accusations against U.S. military personnel in Afghanistan. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the judges' actions as 'illegitimate' and expressed concerns over the 'politicization' of the ICC, which he claimed infringes on the sovereignty and national security of the U.S. and its allies, particularly Israel. The sanctions specifically target Judges Solomy Balungi Bossa (Uganda), Luz Del Carmen Ibanez Carranza (Peru), Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini Gansou (Benin), and Beti Hohler (Slovenia). The U.S. is questioning the legitimacy of the ICC through these sanctions. Secretary Rubio articulated that the U.S. will pursue whatever actions it deems necessary to protect its sovereignty and that of its allies. This stance follows a series of actions taken under the Trump administration against ICC prosecutors and officials, previously making headlines for their opposition to the court's investigations. The ICC responded to the U.S. sanctions by asserting that these measures threaten the independence of the international judicial body. The ICC maintains its role and emphasizes that such attacks do not aid civilians in conflict zones, and further cautioned that undermining judicial independence poses broader risks to global order and justice. The sanctions also led to Slovenia's Prime Minister Robert Golob expressing regret over the U.S. decision, especially concerning Hohler as the only EU citizen among those sanctioned. Slovenia is exploring legal options to counteract the impact of these sanctions through the European Union's blocking statute. The sanctions are viewed as detrimental not just to the individuals directly affected but also to the ICC's efforts to hold war criminals accountable. The implications of such measures could lead to international judicial officials reconsidering their involvement with the ICC amid fears of personal risk derived from U.S. sanctions. Ultimately, the accusations regarding ICC officials extend beyond these four individuals and consider broader ramifications for international law and order, as highlighted by criticisms from various human rights organizations expressing concern over the potential chilling effect on judicial independence globally.