US Lawmakers Pass Legislation to Sanction ICC Over Investigations on Israeli Officials
In a significant move, the United States lawmakers have approved a bill to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its efforts to prosecute Israeli officials for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The bill, known as the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, was passed by the Republican-controlled House of Representatives with a vote of 247-155. This legislation aims to restrict US entry and property transactions for ICC officials involved in seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
Although the vote is largely symbolic and faces hurdles before any sanctions could be enforced, it underscores the unwavering support for Israel among the majority of US lawmakers from both parties. President Joe Biden has expressed concerns about the potential arrest warrants but has opposed imposing sanctions on the ICC, deeming them excessive.
The proposal is unlikely to pass in the Senate, which is narrowly controlled by the Democrats. The Senate's consideration of the bill remains uncertain, with the possibility of the majority leader not allowing a vote to take place. Additionally, the White House's opposition, led by President Biden, could present a final impediment as he threatens a veto.
ICC prosecutor Karim Khan previously stated that there are 'reasonable grounds' to hold Netanyahu, Gallant, and three Hamas leaders accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Netanyahu dismissed the allegations as 'absurd' and accused the ICC of targeting all of Israel.
Although the US measures are not expected to become law, the strong support for Israel displayed by almost every Republican and a portion of Democrats in the House reflects a longstanding stance despite growing international criticism over Israel's actions in Gaza. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson asserted that the US firmly stands with Israel and opposes baseless arrest warrants issued against Israeli leadership by 'international bureaucrats'.
Ahead of the vote, the State Department reiterated the administration's opposition to sanctions on the ICC, stating that they are inappropriate at this time. Netanyahu, in response, expressed surprise and disappointment over this stance.
Meanwhile, President Biden announced Israel's offer of a new peace roadmap, including a six-week ceasefire to pave the way for a permanent resolution. However, Netanyahu has asserted that Israel will continue its military campaign until all its objectives are met.
The developments surrounding the ICC investigation and the US response highlight the complex dynamics of international relations and the ongoing challenges in achieving a rules-based international order amidst conflicting interests and priorities.
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