The United States sanctions Tomoko Akane, president of the International Criminal Court

The United States announced on August 18, 2026, sanctions against Tomoko Akane, president of the International Criminal Court (ICC), as well as against prosecutor's deputy Abdoulaye Seye. This decision is part of a diplomatic offensive against the ICC, which Washington accuses of being 'politicized' and 'corrupt,' according to several sources, including Le Temps and Radio-Canada.

Washington launched a diplomatic campaign on July 13 to encourage ICC member states to withdraw from the court. The American reaction comes as two countries, Venezuela and Chad, have already followed this call. Part of this offensive has also targeted ICC investigations concerning Israel, further escalating tensions between the United States and this judicial institution.

The Japanese government has expressed regret over the sanctions imposed on Tomoko Akane, calling the measure 'very regrettable.' The United States accused Akane of participating in efforts to investigate officials refusing the jurisdiction of the ICC, as reported by Le Monde.

The ICC has responded by denouncing the U.S. sanctions, stating that they undermine the rule of law. In the context of this escalation, Washington continues to maintain its position against the jurisdiction of The Hague, which has already seen several of its members face pressure.

The sanctions notably prohibit Akane and several other judges from entering U.S. territory. This decision has been welcomed by some American media, which describe the ICC as an institution whose credibility is questioned by Washington's foreign policy.

The diplomatic climate between the United States and the ICC remains tense, with firmly entrenched positions on both sides. The United States, which is not a signatory to the treaty establishing the ICC, continues its strategy of pressure on nations and on the institution itself. The international community will closely monitor upcoming developments in this situation.