MPAC CONDEMNS TRUMP’S IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS ON ICC
Why is Trump Attacking the International Criminal Court (ICC)?
Image Credit: The White House
On February 6, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to punish the International Criminal Court (ICC) — the world’s top legal body for investigating war crimes. President Trump claims that the ICC is unfairly and unjustly targeting the U.S. and Israel.
This move comes after the ICC insured arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Their roles in orchestrating and conducting undeniable war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza led the investigation. If these leaders visit any of the 124 countries that recognize the ICC, they could be arrested.
The ICC has long supported Palestinian rights. It recognized Palestine as a member of its body in 2015, and has been investigating war crimes in Gaza ever since. The ICC has maintained that it has jurisdiction over these areas since Israel’s occupation of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem in 1967.
Image Credit: Office of Senator John Thune
What Does Trump’s Executive Order Do?
President Trump’s order sanctions, or punishes, the ICC officials by:
Freezing their bank accounts and property
Banning them and their families from entering the U.S.
One of the main targets of this order is ICC Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan, the official leading the investigation into Israel’s actions in Gaza. This sends a dangerous message: The U.S. will punish anyone who tries to hold Israel accountable for war crimes.
By doing this, President Trump is encouraging Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders to continue their military aggression in Gaza, and beyond, without fear of consequences. He’s also warning human rights defenders that if they speak out, they could face consequences too.
Image Credit: Tony Webster
Why Does This Matter for American Muslims?
This is not just about international affairs – it directly affects American-Muslims, especially those who care about Palestine, justice, and free speech.
Trump’s executive order is part of a bigger plan to silence support for Palestine and those who protest Israel:
It adds to efforts that ban Pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses.
It restricts humanitarian aid to Gaza, including cutting funding for UNRWA, the main agency helping Palestinian refugees.
It strengthens policies that punish criticism of Israel, even if it is protected by the First Amendment.
Whether you’re a student, activist, lawyer or simply an American who cares about human rights, the message is clear: The U.S. government under the Trump Administration is choosing to protective Israel at all costs– even if it means silencing you.
This is why American-Muslims and allies must stay informed, speak out, and support organizations that fight for justice in Palestine.
