Panama city: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Latin American members of the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition (ACCC) to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), citing concerns over national sovereignty. During his remarks in Panama, Hegseth emphasized the importance of countries retaining the authority to deploy their forces and defend their citizens under their own laws.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hegseth criticized the ICC for attempting to exert jurisdiction over US and partner military personnel, labeling it a 'lawless power grab.' He expressed that nations should answer only to their own citizens and constitutions, not to "unelected international bureaucrats." Hegseth, known for his "warrior culture" initiative, has been a vocal advocate for reducing constraints on US military operations, which he argues hinder the effectiveness of American troops.

He also announced Colombia's accession to the ACCC, making it the 19th member. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has reportedly requested US participation in combating narco-terrorism, seeking joint military operations. Hegseth referred to Colombia's new president as 'El Tigre,' highlighting a commitment to collaborative defense strategies.

Washington's campaign against the ICC has intensified, with Trump supporting Secretary of State Marco Rubio's efforts to counter the court. This move is partly aimed at protecting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from ICC scrutiny. The US remains a non-party to the ICC and has escalated its opposition following the court's issuance of arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged crimes in Gaza.