EU Vows Support for ICC Against US Sanctions

The European Union has criticised US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), describing the decision as deeply regrettable and pledging to help the tribunal continue its operations.

The European Commission said on Friday that the bloc would work closely with the Hague-based court and consider necessary steps to ensure it could carry out its responsibilities effectively.

“The EU will work closely with the ICC to ensure it continues to operate effectively,” the European Commission said.

The commission noted that the sanctions would not take effect for six months, expressing hope that the delay would provide an opportunity for dialogue between the parties.

Among the options under consideration is the EU’s blocking mechanism, a legal instrument designed to prevent European companies from complying with certain foreign sanctions, including through deliberate inaction.

The measure could help shield some European businesses and the court from the effects of Washington’s restrictions.

Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen has described the mechanism as a “nuclear option”, but said the Netherlands had asked the European Commission to prepare it.

The EU’s response follows Washington’s latest action against the ICC as US President Donald Trump’s administration heightens its campaign against the tribunal over investigations involving Americans and Israelis.