Fri Feb 07 17:12:17 UTC 2025: ## Trump Declares National Emergency Over ICC Investigations of US and Israeli Officials

**Washington, D.C.** – In a sweeping executive order, former President Donald Trump declared a national emergency, citing what he termed “illegitimate and baseless actions” by the International Criminal Court (ICC) targeting the United States and Israel. The order imposes sanctions on ICC officials and those who assist their investigations into alleged war crimes committed by US and Israeli personnel.

The order specifically condemns the ICC’s preliminary investigations and arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Trump argued that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over both countries, as neither is a member of the court. He further stated that the ICC’s actions endanger US personnel, including active military members, and undermine US national security and foreign policy.

The executive order authorizes the blocking of assets and the suspension of entry into the United States for ICC officials, employees, and agents, as well as their immediate family members. It also prohibits donations to those sanctioned individuals. The Treasury Secretary, in consultation with the State Department, will identify further individuals for sanctions within 60 days.

The declaration invokes several legal authorities, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act, to justify the actions. It cites the American Servicemembers’ Protection Act of 2002, which was designed to protect US military personnel from prosecution by international courts without US consent.

The White House statement emphasized the US commitment to accountability and international order but insisted that the ICC must respect the sovereignty of nations that do not accept its jurisdiction. The order clarifies that it does not affect the official business of the federal government. The Treasury Secretary is mandated to provide regular reports to Congress on the implementation of the emergency declaration.

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