Official ICC announcements and international legal news

House Passes Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act Sanctioning ICC Over Netanyahu Arrest Warrant in 243-140 Vote

Jan 9, 2025, 04:50 PM

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act (H.R. 23) in a 243-140 vote, imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) following its issuance of arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The legislation, introduced by Representatives Chip Roy and Brian Mast, aims to "send a message" to the ICC, which lawmakers describe as a "rogue" and "illegitimate" body targeting the United States and its allies. The act includes sanctions against ICC officials, including Prosecutor Karim Khan, with measures such as visa restrictions and asset freezes. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated, "Congress won't tolerate crooked players who attack Israel." Rep. Brian Mast emphasized, "Israel is the tip of the spear in bringing the fight to an enemy that currently holds and has killed our fellow Americans." The bill garnered bipartisan support and will now move to the Senate, where Senate Majority Leader John Thune has promised to bring it to the floor. Lawmakers underscored the importance of standing with Israel and protecting American sovereignty against international institutions they perceive as overstepping their authority.