The U.S. has imposed sanctions on two International Criminal Court judges, Gocha Lordkipanidze and Erdenebalsuren Damdin, following the ICC’s ruling against Israel’s attempts to halt a Gaza war crimes investigation. Secretary of State Rubio criticized their involvement in ICC actions against Israeli nationals, reinforcing U.S. support for Israel amid ongoing tensions. The ICC condemned the sanctions as an attack on judicial independence, pledging to fulfill its mandate despite pressure. The U.S. and Israel, not ICC members, argue the court exceeds its jurisdiction with investigations involving their citizens.
