1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the recent sanctions imposed by the Trump administration on four additional International Criminal Court (ICC) officials. This action, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is a dangerous escalation in our nation's conflict with the ICC and undermines our commitment to international justice. The sanctions target Kimberly Prost, Nicolas Guillou, Nazhat Shameem Khan, and Mame Mandiaye Niang for their work investigating alleged war crimes by the United States and Israel. This move follows previous sanctions on ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan and four ICC judges. These punitive measures, authorized under a February executive order by President Trump, are not only unjust but also counterproductive to our nation's interests and values. It is deeply troubling that the United States, as a global leader, is one of the few nations refusing to be subject to ICC jurisdiction. This stance already weakens our moral authority on the world stage. However, actively sanctioning ICC officials for carrying out their mandated duties is repugnant and severely damages our international reputation. The ICC's role in investigating and prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide is crucial for maintaining global order and justice. By impeding the court's work, we are effectively obstructing justice and potentially enabling impunity for serious international crimes. I urge you to take immediate action to reverse these sanctions and support legislation that would prevent such measures in the future. Furthermore, I ask that you advocate for the United States to reconsider its position on ICC jurisdiction. Our nation should be at the forefront of supporting international justice, not undermining it. The international community, including our close allies like France, has condemned these sanctions. By aligning ourselves with the ICC's mission, we can restore our reputation as a champion of human rights and international law. The consequences of our current path are severe: we risk isolating ourselves diplomatically and losing our moral standing in global affairs. I implore you to act swiftly on this matter. The integrity of international justice and America's role as a responsible global leader are at stake. Your leadership on this issue is crucial for upholding the values that our nation has long stood for.