Washington, D.C. (The COW News Digital) The United States government has imposed sanctions on two judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over their alleged involvement in actions against Israel, officials confirmed on Thursday. The decision marks a significant escalation in tensions between Washington and the ICC.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio identified the sanctioned judges as Judge Gocha Lordki Pandzi from Georgia and Judge Ardien Balsurien Damden from Mongolia. According to Rubio, both judges were directly involved in political and unauthorized measures targeting Israeli citizens, including attempts to investigate or prosecute them.
“The United States will hold these judges accountable for their misuse of ICC powers, particularly in actions that violate the sovereignty of Israel,” Rubio said. He added that the sanctions are a response to the judges’ repeated engagement in procedures that contravene international law and undermine legal norms.
Details of the sanctions include travel restrictions, asset freezes, and potential prohibitions on U.S. entities engaging in transactions with the sanctioned judges. Officials emphasized that these measures are aimed at deterring further politically motivated actions against U.S. allies.
The ICC, based in The Hague, has faced longstanding criticism from the U.S. over perceived biases in its investigations. While the court asserts its independence, Washington maintains that any efforts to prosecute Israeli nationals constitute an infringement on sovereign rights.
Legal experts note that these sanctions represent an unusual step, as the ICC typically operates independently of national governments. Analysts suggest the move could heighten diplomatic friction between the United States and international legal institutions, potentially affecting future cooperation on global justice matters.
The ICC has not yet formally responded to the sanctions. However, representatives have previously maintained that judicial decisions are made according to international law, free from political influence.
Observers say this development underscores ongoing debates about the balance between national sovereignty and international judicial authority, particularly when politically sensitive cases are involved.
The U.S. government stated that it remains committed to supporting accountability and the rule of law globally but will take action to protect its allies from what it perceives as unlawful judicial overreach.
