Four prominent human rights organizations have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government, claiming that sanctions imposed by the Trump administration against the International Criminal Court hinder the pursuit of justice for international crimes.

The lawsuit, submitted to a federal court in New York, challenges a presidential executive order from February 2025 that allows for sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, against ICC officials. The plaintiffs, which include Human Rights Watch, argue that these measures obstruct their ability to advocate for victims of war crimes and submit legal statements to the court.

The sanctions were initially enacted in response to an ICC warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu related to actions in Gaza. The organizations contend that these actions represent an unlawful assault on international justice, infringing upon their constitutional rights, particularly freedom of speech and association.

The International Criminal Court, established in 2002, prosecutes individuals for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. While over 120 countries are members, the U.S., Israel, Russia, and China are notable absentees. Recently, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a campaign to dismantle the ICC, prompting countries like Venezuela and Chad to consider withdrawing from the court.