UN chief condemns US sanctions on ICC as international backlash grows

UN secretary general Antonio Guterres on Friday condemned the US decision to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court, saying he was "deeply alarmed by the expected impact" of the measures. "Today's decision marks a serious blow to our collective pursuit of international criminal justice, of which the ICC is a key pillar," Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-general's spokesman, told reporters. Dujarric added that Guterres reiterated his "unwavering support for the independence of the Court and its officials". The UN chief's remarks add to a growing wave of condemnation from US allies, following earlier statements by the EU and a group of countries including Germany , France , the UK , and Japan.