Netherlands Regrets US Sanctions To ICC

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp/PHOTO via Instagram @ministerbz

JAKARTA - The Netherlands, as the host of the International Criminal Court (ICC) expressed regret over the order of the United States' latest executive to impose sanctions on the court.

"The Netherlands regrets the executive's order to impose sanctions on the ICC. This court has an important role in fighting impunity. Our country has a strong reputation and great responsibility as the host for important international legal institutions," wrote Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp, on X. reported by ANTARA from Anadolu, Friday, February 7.

Veldkamp reiterated the Dutch's commitment to international law, stating, "The Dutch actively contribute to strengthening the international legal order and multilateral cooperation and will carry out legal obligations and international agreements with good faith."

In November, the ICC issued an arrest warrant against Israeli authority leader Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense chief Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip.

Israel is also facing genocide lawsuits at the International Court over its brutal military operations in the region.

In a separate statement on Friday, the ICC condemned a US executive order seeking to impose sanctions on the court.

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the ICC for his actions against Washington and its allies, including Israel.

The order states the US will take firm steps against parties "responsible for ICC violations."

Several steps to be implemented include blocking property and assets, as well as restrictions on entry to US territory for ICC staff and their family members.