The head of the International Criminal Court, Judge Tomoko Akane, has stressed the importance of continued support from Japan, according to a report by Manila Bulletin. Her comments come as the court faces fresh pressure from the United States.
The Manila Bulletin report, published on Sunday, indicates that Akane highlighted Japan’s role as a key partner for the ICC. The statement follows the court’s strong rejection of new US sanctions designations, which the ICC has publicly criticized. The sanctions, reported by the International Criminal Court itself, have drawn sharp rebuke from the institution.
According to Inquirer.net, the ICC chief has warned of the potential "demise" of the rule of law as a result of the US actions. The sanctions have also affected senior court officials, with The New York Times reporting that Japan’s close ties with Washington did not shield a top Japanese judge from the measures. The report notes that the sanctions apply to individuals regardless of their home country’s diplomatic relationships.
The situation has also sparked domestic debate in Japan. A separate report from nippon.com notes that Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi has faced criticism for her handling of relations with both the US and Russia, though that report does not directly link her actions to the ICC sanctions.
Akane’s appeal to Japan underscores the court’s need for allies as it navigates the diplomatic fallout. The ICC has previously relied on member states for political and financial backing.
What to watch next: Whether Japan’s government will issue a formal response to Akane’s request and how it balances its alliance with Washington against its commitments to the ICC.
