U.S. Pressures ICC, Japan Caught Off Guard

According to Kyodo News on the 21st: The United States has been continuously urging member states of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to withdraw. As the ICC's largest financial contributor, Japan finds itself in a precarious position.

Japanese media commentary: On the issue of withdrawal, the U.S. has placed Japan in a difficult dilemma. While closely monitoring the U.S. stance, Japan is also preparing to coordinate with other parties to respond to this situation.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi responded in the House of Councillors Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense, saying: "I am closely monitoring the situation." He added: "Depending on further actions by the United States, we will make appropriate responses through communication with the ICC, the U.S., and other signatory countries." A ministry official revealed: "Currently, the U.S. has not taken any concrete action."

The International Criminal Court, located in The Hague, Netherlands, is a permanent tribunal responsible for prosecuting and punishing individuals who commit serious crimes such as war crimes and genocide. The current judge is Japanese national Chikako Akagi.

It is reported that 125 countries and regions are members, including Japan, while major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia have not joined.

Trump opposes the ICC's investigation into potential U.S. military war crimes and the arrest warrant issued against Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, and has imposed sanctions on judges.

Secretary of State Rubio stated: "American sovereignty is under threat," adding: "We will dismantle it using every possible means." He has begun exerting increasing pressure.

The Japanese government expresses concern about future developments. A senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: "The outlook remains unclear," noting that "President Trump has not yet taken further action and may not do so immediately." Another government official said: "It's difficult to determine how serious the issue will become right now."

Japanese officials stated: "Although Japan might eventually be forced to withdraw, we have no intention of changing our policy supporting the ICC. It is the most significant contributor, and Japan has consistently helped train judges."

High-ranking official Takumi Asaka pledged continued support during a meeting with Judge Akagi in January.

A senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized: "Even if pressured by the U.S. to withdraw, Japan will not simply say 'yes'."

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1871277449246794/

Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author