Mike Walz, Trump’s designated National Security Advisor, has declared the International Criminal Court (ICC) “has completely lost credibility,” intensifying a storm of criticism over its recent arrest warrants targeting Israeli officials.
Reports from Israeli media suggest Trump’s inner circle began planning sanctions against ICC officials responsible for these warrants months before his presidency officially began. The warrants, issued for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, allege war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán responded swiftly, inviting Netanyahu to Hungary and making a bold promise. “I make it clear that if he accepts the invitation, we will not arrest him,” Orbán stated on Friday.
Sanctions Against ICC Officials and Families
In response to the ICC’s actions, Washington insiders revealed plans to impose personal sanctions, not only on ICC prosecutors and judges but potentially their family members as well. Walz doubled down on his stance, tweeting:
“The ICC has completely lost credibility. Israel has lawfully defended its people and borders against genocidal terrorists. Expect a strong reaction in January to this anti-Semitic prejudice from the ICC and the United Nations.”
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham joined the fray, proposing legislation to penalize nations supporting ICC measures against Israel. He called the ICC’s actions “a ruthless act that tramples on the rule of law.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed the outrage, tweeting:
“The ICC’s decision to target America’s ally Israel is anti-Semitic, reprehensible, and completely ridiculous. It has absolutely no jurisdiction over Israel or the United States, and these illegal orders are an attack on the concepts of sovereignty and due process.”
Jurisdiction Dispute Intensifies
Critics argue the ICC’s move oversteps its authority, especially given that neither the United States nor Israel is a member of the court. This has further fueled claims of bias and questions over the legitimacy of the ICC’s actions.
As tensions rise, both the U.S. and its allies are gearing up for a strong response, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing clash between the ICC and nations questioning its jurisdiction and motives.
