Trump Sanctions on ICC Prosecutor Face Legal Challenge in U.S. Court

Human rights advocates argue the executive order violates constitutional rights and obstructs international justice efforts.

President Trump’s February executive order imposed economic and travel sanctions on ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, targeting his role in war crimes investigations.
A lawsuit filed in Maine federal court on April 11, 2025, challenges the order, claiming it violates First Amendment rights and oversteps emergency powers.
Plaintiffs Matthew Smith and Akila Radhakrishnan assert the sanctions forced them to halt critical collaboration with the ICC on cases involving atrocities in Myanmar and Afghanistan.
The sanctions threaten U.S. citizens and organizations with penalties for providing services to sanctioned ICC officials, creating a chilling effect on human rights advocacy.
The case highlights broader efforts by the Trump administration to undermine the ICC, raising concerns about the U.S. stance on international accountability.