Italy declined to join 79 United Nations member states in condemning the latest US sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC), further straining its relationship with the court over the controversial deportation of Osama Njeem Almasri, head of Libya’s judicial police.
The joint statement, signed by countries including France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands, warned that US sanctions could undermine ICC investigations and erode international rule of law. It described the ICC as “a vital pillar of the international judicial system, ensuring accountability for the most serious crimes and justice for their victims.”
The US sanctions, announced on Thursday, target the ICC in response to its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes. President Donald Trump called the ICC’s actions “illegitimate and unfounded.”
Italy’s refusal to condemn the sanctions comes amid escalating tensions with the ICC over the Almasri case. Despite an ICC arrest warrant, Italy deported Almasri, prompting criticism from human rights groups and legal experts. Deputy Prime Ministers Antonio Tajani and Matteo Salvini have accused the ICC of overreach, arguing that the court itself should be investigated.
Dispute over Almasri’s arrest warrant
The Italian government has challenged the validity of Almasri’s arrest warrant, dismissing it as “null” due to alleged procedural flaws. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni questioned the timing of the warrant, noting that it was issued as Almasri entered Italy, despite his prior travel through three other European countries.
Justice Minister Carlo Nordio is reportedly considering a formal request for clarifications from the ICC regarding inconsistencies in the warrant’s procedures. Meanwhile, Italian newspaper Avvenire reported that the ICC has opened an inquiry into the Italian government for “obstruction of justice,” a claim Rome has denied.
Omer Shatz, director of the human rights legal organisation Front-Lex, which filed a complaint against Meloni, Nordio, and Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, stated that Almasri’s victims feel “humiliated and disappointed” by Italy’s actions.
They wanted to see him tried and held accountable.
The ICC spokesperson emphasised that under the Rome Statute, anyone can submit information to the prosecutor’s office but declined to comment on specific cases.
As Italy’s standoff with the ICC deepens, its refusal to condemn US sanctions highlights the complex interplay between national sovereignty, international justice, and geopolitical alliances. The Almasri case continues to cast a shadow over Italy’s commitment to upholding international law and human rights.
