Scores of countries back ICC after Trump sanctions

France, Germany and Britain are among the 79 signatories to line up behind vital pillar ru the international ania system’

- CHRIS STEVENSON

Scores of countries have expressed their "unwavering support" for the International Criminal Court (ICC) a day after Donald Trump signed off sanctions against the court's staff.

“We reaffirm our continued and unwavering support for the independence, impartiality and integrity of the ICC,” a group of almost 80 countries said in a joint statement. “The court serves as a vital pillar of the international justice system by ensuring accountability for the most serious international crimes, and justice for victims.”

The 79 signatories came from all parts of the world, but make up only about two-thirds of the 125 member states of the permanent court for the prosecution of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and crimes of aggression. Among the countries who agreed to the statement were France, Germany and Britain. Among those absent were Australia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Italy.

Britain’s prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, backed the court in his own remarks. Asked whether Sir Keir was opposed to Mr Trump’s view, a No 10 spokesperson said: “Ultimately, that’s a matter for the US. As for the UK, we support the independence of the ICC. Therefore, we’ve got no plans to sanction individual court officials.”