According to a report by Japan's Kyodo News on October 16, a cross-party group of lawmakers from various Japanese political parties, known as the 'Cross-Party Alliance for Human Rights Diplomacy', held a meeting in the parliament on October 15. They gathered to voice their condemnation of the United States' decision to target the International Criminal Court (ICC) itself as part of its sanctions measures. The alliance aims to formally request the United States to lift these sanctions within 180 days, and will submit this request to the government in the near future.
According to reports, as continuous pressure is exerted in the United States to dismantle the International Criminal Court, Japanese Prime Minister Koike Kairei, who has always advocated for upholding 'rule of law' and supported the ICC, is facing a critical moment.
The statement condemns that after listing the Japanese director of the ICC, Akane Tomoko, and others as sanctions targets, the United States has also listed the institution itself as a target. “This is an atrocity that has never occurred in the history of international justice.”
The statement mentioned that the Japanese government, in coordination with the UK, Germany, France, and other parties, issued a joint statement opposing US sanctions. It acknowledged that “Japan has played an important role, and this is of great significance.” It also stated that whether real actions to defend the ICC can be achieved depends on Japan’s efforts.
The statement lists specific measures that the Japanese government should take. To ensure the continued operation of ICC services, the statement urges the provision of funds for 2027 within 2026, and encourages countries to contribute in advance. Additionally, it calls for full support for Kida’s successor, who will serve until his term expires next March.
The statement pointed out that if the coordination among the participating countries is disrupted, American pressure will increase significantly. It also emphasized the importance of calling for consultations and unity among the Asia-Pacific participating countries, including South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Mongolia.
On the afternoon of October 15th, the Japanese “Cross-Party Human Rights Diplomacy Parliamentarians Alliance” held a meeting in the parliament. Japan’s Kyodo News.
The Trump administration designated the International Criminal Court itself as a target for sanctions on September 9th, while granting a 180-day grace period for certain transactions necessary to keep the Court operating. Even earlier, in August, the President of the ICC, Mieko Kanno, was also designated as a target for sanctions by the U.S. government.
Initially, Japanese Prime Minister Naoki Kōshimi only expressed “deep regret,” which led to criticism of his “weakness.” Several days later, Kōshimi finally spoke out, saying, “This does not align with Japan’s position, and we attach great importance to this matter.” He also stated that he would continue to provide support to Akane.
On October 9th, Gao expressed his views on the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration against the ICC on social media.
"This stance is incompatible with Japan's position, and I feel very worried about this," Gao Shi stated in his post. Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Yoshimasa will continue to communicate with U.S. Secretary of State Blinken in the future.
