US House Approves Sanctions Against ICC Amid Controversy

The US House of Representatives approved sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Tuesday, following the ICC chief prosecutor's request for an arrest warrant against Israeli leaders. Despite opposition from the White House, the bill was passed with a bipartisan vote of 247-155, including support from 42 Democrats.

The bill, enacted under the Illegal Court Counter-Action Law, mandates sanctions and visa restrictions on any foreign entity that funds or assists the ICC in prosecuting the United States, Israel, or any other US partner not a member of the ICC. This legislative action follows ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan's recommendation last month to charge Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant with war crimes.

The White House expressed concerns over the ICC's actions and opposed the legislation, stating that there are more effective ways to defend Israel and promote international justice and accountability. The administration is open to working with Congress to explore these alternatives.

This bill holds symbolic significance as the US does not recognize the ICC's jurisdiction. Last week, four senior Congressional leaders invited Netanyahu to address a joint congressional meeting, although the timing of his address remains unclear.