ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Removed Amid Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, was removed from his position on Friday following sexual misconduct accusations. This decision comes nearly two years after the allegations first became public. The removal takes place as the ICC faces significant challenges, including opposition from the United States, which seeks to dismantle the court.

The Assembly of States Parties, the court’s oversight body, announced that 125 state members voted to dismiss Khan, citing “serious misconduct and serious breach of duty.” Liz Evenson from Human Rights Watch emphasized the need for high standards at the ICC, advocating for a safe workplace free from abuse.

Khan, a British barrister, was accused of having a sexual relationship with a female aide and attempting to prevent her from pursuing the claims, as reported by the Associated Press. Despite these allegations, Khan has denied any wrongdoing.

The oversight body now faces the task of electing a new prosecutor, who may confront sanctions from the Trump administration. These sanctions include financial penalties and travel bans imposed on 13 ICC staff members, Khan among them.

Khan’s legal team objected to the process, alleging that he was not given a fair chance to defend himself. Attorney Tayab Ali criticized the proceedings, promising to challenge the decision using available legal options.

This development occurs as the ICC faces pressure from the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio recently announced a campaign to challenge the ICC’s authority and encourage member states to withdraw from the institution. He plans to target organizations linked to the court and restrict travel for its staff to the U.S.

In response to the events, Venezuela announced its withdrawal from the ICC, citing perceived bias towards African and Latin American countries. Earlier investigations into U.S. sanctions on Venezuela were discontinued due to insufficient evidence, although probes into actions by Venezuelan security forces continue.

The sanctions against Khan and others were in response to ICC’s warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, concerning the Gaza conflict. The allegations against Khan have been linked to the court’s broader investigations, adding political complexity to the situation.

Despite Khan’s removal, the forthcoming arrest warrants in 2024 for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will remain effective unless revoked by ICC judges. The international community is urged to respect the privacy and dignity of all parties involved in Khan’s case, according to Kaukoranta of the Assembly of States Parties.

Reporters Quell provided input from The Hague, and Amiri contributed from New York.