Brussels: Belgium on Thursday condemned recent US sanctions targeting officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC), including its president and a senior lawyer in the prosecutor's office. "Belgium condemns all sanctions targeting the International Criminal Court, its officials and those cooperating with it. The measures undermine the Court's independence and impartiality and weaken the global fight against impunity," Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot wrote on US social media platform X.

According to Anadolu Agency, Prevot emphasized the necessity for the ICC to operate without intimidation or political pressure, underscoring the importance of the Court's mandate. "This is not about defending national sovereignty. On the contrary, sovereignty also carries the responsibility to abide by the fundamental principles of international law," Prevot stated.

He further emphasized Belgium's commitment to support victims in their quest for justice, alongside the efforts of the Court's staff and civil society organizations dedicated to advancing accountability. Prevot reaffirmed Belgium's pledge to continue its advocacy efforts, mentioning the potential activation of the Blocking Statute, an EU legislation designed to prevent European companies from adhering to US sanctions imposed beyond American jurisdiction.