Deputy Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Nazhat Shameem Khan says the court continues to make significant progress in its investigations despite new sanctions imposed by the United States.
Khan has told The Guardian that some ICC staff are already experiencing banking difficulties, although the sanctions have not affected the court's investigations or operations.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio announced the sanctions earlier this month, describing the ICC as a rogue court and warning that the United States would take further action if the court did not address its concerns.
Khan says the sanctions are intended to target the institution rather than individual staff members, but some banks appear to be taking additional precautions to minimise their risks.
She says all investigations are continuing and the court has not made any decisions to reduce its capabilities or output because of the sanctions.
Khan has also confirmed that significant progress has been made in investigations relating to the Gaza conflict, following the issuance of arrest warrants in November 2024 against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
She says further applications for arrest warrants cannot be discussed publicly because of court orders requiring confidentiality until judges decide otherwise.
Khan, who was among 13 ICC staff members targeted by earlier US sanctions in February 2025, says the restrictions have also affected everyday activities, including access to credit cards.
However, she says these difficulties are not significant compared to the suffering of victims seeking justice through the court.
The ICC has been taking steps to reduce its dependence on US-based services, including switching from Microsoft software to European alternatives and negotiating arrangements for banking and health insurance.
Meanwhile, the European Parliament has awarded the ICC and its officials the 2026 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.
Khan says international support sends an important message to ICC staff and reinforces the court's role in providing justice for victims who have nowhere else to turn.
The latest US sanctions were announced on 9th October, with a six-month period provided for negotiations before they take effect.
