Fate of ICC chief prosecutor heads to unprecedented vote as U.S. sanctions keep him out of New York

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is holding a special session in New York to vote on the potential removal of chief prosecutor Karim Khan following allegations of sexual misconduct. Khan, who denies the claims, is unable to attend due to U.S. sanctions imposed over his investigation into Israeli officials.
Why it matters
The potential ousting of the ICC chief prosecutor during a period of global geopolitical tension significantly impacts the credibility and operations of the international justice system.
Diplomats from around the world are gathering at United Nations headquarters in New York on Friday (July 24, 2026) to decide whether to permanently remove the embattled chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.
British barrister Karim Khan has been accused of sexual misconduct with a female aide, as outlined by The Associated Press in a series of stories, allegations which he has steadfastly denied.
The saga has dragged on for more than two years and has had profound implications for the global tribunal, which is already under enormous pressure. Earlier this month, the United States, which has long criticized the court, announced a campaign aimed at dismantling the 24-year-old institution.
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