ICC responds to US sanctions: ‘We will not give up’

International Criminal Court (ICC) President Tomoko Akane has said the court will not back down even if the United States expands its sanctions to target the institution itself.

Speaking remotely from The Hague at a news conference in Tokyo, Akane said the sanctions imposed on her had so far prevented her from using her credit card.

Akane also expressed hope that Japan would play a greater role in supporting the court, particularly in the face of pressure that could push some member states to withdraw.

She said the sanctions had strengthened her determination to continue the ICC’s work.

Her comments came in response to US sanctions imposed on her and the ICC’s senior lawyer, Abdoulaye Seye, over the court’s actions […]