Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Japan protests US sanctions targeting ICC president Akane
Tokyo has objected to Washington's decision to impose sanctions on International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane, marking a rare diplomatic friction between the close allies over the court's operations and credibility.
LSN Malaysia ·
Japan's government expressed strong opposition to sanctions levied by the United States against ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, according to statements from Tokyo officials. The American action represents part of a broader campaign by Washington against what it characterises as a "corrupt and fatally politicised" institution.
The sanctions underscore escalating tensions between Washington and the Hague-based court, which has increasingly faced scrutiny from major powers over its investigative priorities and operational independence. The Trump administration has previously criticised the ICC for what it views as selective prosecutions and institutional bias.
Japan's objection highlights divisions among US allies regarding the court's legitimacy and future direction. Tokyo, which maintains close security and diplomatic ties with Washington, has historically supported multilateral institutions and international legal frameworks, positioning it at odds with the US position on this matter.
The dispute comes as the ICC continues investigations into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity across multiple continents, with decisions on prosecution priorities becoming increasingly contested among member and non-member states alike.