ICC Chief Tomoko Akane Says There Is “No Reason” for US Sanctions
TOKYO — International Criminal Court (ICC) President Tomoko Akane has strongly maintained that there is no justification for her to be placed under sanctions by the United States.
During an online press conference hosted by the Japan National Press Club on Aug. 26, Akane said she remains determined to perform her duties despite the US measures against her.
“I can say with certainty that there is no reason for me to be sanctioned,” Akane said in response to the sanctions announced by the United States on Aug. 18.
She acknowledged that the sanctions could put her at a disadvantage, particularly in financial and other matters, but stressed that she would continue to resist the pressure.
“I’ll fight back as much as I can,” she said.
Akane calls sanctions a “rule of law crisis”
Akane described the broader sanctions against the Hague-based ICC as a “rule of law crisis.”
She stressed that the international court must not be allowed to collapse because of external pressure or threats.
“We must never allow the ICC to collapse, and we’ll resist with all our might,” Akane said, adding that she would not be intimidated.
The ICC president also welcomed comments from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who said the US measures run counter to Tokyo’s position.
Akane called on the Japanese government to make maximum efforts to protect the ICC and uphold the rule of law.
She expressed confidence that Japan, as a US ally, could continue diplomatic dialogue with Washington while emphasizing the importance and legitimacy of the ICC.
Sanctions already affecting financial transactions
The impact of the sanctions is not limited to diplomatic relations.
Akane revealed that she has already encountered difficulties involving financial transactions and other matters following the restrictions.
Under the sanctions, affected individuals may have their assets in the United States frozen and may also be barred from traveling to the country.
The ICC is a permanent international court responsible for prosecuting individuals accused of some of the most serious crimes under international law, including war crimes and genocide.
The court currently has 125 member states, including Japan, which is its largest financial contributor.
The United States is not a member of the ICC. Washington has argued that the court’s investigations involving US troops threaten American sovereignty.
The administration of US President Donald Trump has also urged ICC member states, including Japan, to withdraw from the court. Some member countries have expressed their intention to leave.
The United States has imposed sanctions on several ICC officials, including judges and prosecutors.
Source/Credit: Philippine News Agency (PNA)