US calls for NATO allies to withdraw from Rome Statute, 'systematically dismantle' ICC - report

The United States has called on NATO allies to withdraw from the Rome Statute and help "systematically dismantle" the International Criminal Court, according to a Politico report. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker made the demand during a closed-door meeting in Brussels in mid-July, warning allies that Washington would be watching who stands with America. France and the Netherlands opposed the move, with France stating its support for the court was unwavering. The US campaign stems from concerns over potential prosecution of American officials and soldiers, as well as ICC proceedings against Israeli officials.

The United States has called on its NATO allies to withdraw from the Rome Statute and help "systematically dismantle" the International Criminal Court, according to a report by Politico published on Thursday. US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker made the demand during a closed-door meeting of ambassadors from the alliance's 32 member states, held in Brussels in mid-July. According to three NATO diplomats cited in the report, Whitaker asked allies to help dismantle the court and concluded his remarks with a warning: "We will be watching closely who stands with America." A document circulated by the US delegation stated: "The United States will systematically dismantle the capabilities of the International Criminal Court." Washington asked allies to withdraw from the Rome Statute, publicly condemn the court's alleged "overreach of authority," and halt any material support for it. "Let's end once and for all the charade of the International Criminal Court," the document stated. France and the Netherlands opposed the move during the meeting. France stressed its support for the court was "unwavering." One diplomat described Whitaker's remarks as "quite shocking," while another called them "disappointing." The US campaign against the ICC stems from concerns that American officials and soldiers could face prosecution for war crimes, and over ICC proceedings against Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant. Last month, Washington imposed sanctions on ICC officials, including President Tomoko Akane.