Four U.S.-based human rights organizations have taken legal action against the Trump administration, alleging that the sanctions imposed on the International Criminal Court (ICC) are illegal. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York on Tuesday, accuses President Trump of overstepping his authority with an executive order in February 2025 that authorized sanctions against ICC personnel and individuals or groups supporting the court.
The sanctions were triggered by the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrants in late 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant for alleged crimes in Gaza. The U.S. criticized the warrants and the ICC’s investigations into American personnel in Afghanistan when announcing the sanctions.
The plaintiffs argue that the sanctions have impeded their human rights and legal activities, infringing on rights protected under the U.S. Constitution, including freedom of speech. Human Rights Watch’s Liz Evenson emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and human rights, denouncing the administration’s actions.
A White House official responded to the lawsuit by reiterating concerns about the ICC’s jurisdiction and emphasizing the U.S.’ commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and allies from what it perceives as illegitimate actions by the court.
The ICC, based in The Hague, focuses on prosecuting individuals for war crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, and aggression. The U.S. has had a contentious relationship with the court for years, escalating under the Trump administration, which previously sanctioned ICC officials.
Additionally, advocacy groups have challenged the administration’s sanctions on the ICC, alleging violations of free speech and Palestinian rights advocacy. The ongoing legal battles underscore the tension between the U.S. and the ICC over jurisdiction and accountability.