Elfreth Statement on International Criminal Court

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) voted against H.R. 23, the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act. Elfreth also joined 40 Democrats in signing a letter condemning the ICC’s arrest warrants.

“Like many of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, I am opposed to the ICC’s arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials, and I support the National Security Council’s fundamental rejection of the decision. I believe that Israel’s independent judiciary is fully capable of investigating and prosecuting any possible breaches of international law,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “The legislation that Republicans brought forth—without sufficient consideration of bipartisan input—is merely a way to stoke political division. The proposed sanctions are far too broad and could alienate and implicate our closest allies abroad who provide even the most minor assistance to the court on any matter. This could obstruct and weaken other important ICC investigations, including investigations into Russia's invasion of Ukraine. I believe the consequences of this legislation would ultimately weaken America’s standing on the world stage, which is why I instead encourage my Republican colleagues to  work across the aisle toward a more narrow, better-targeted set of solutions to achieve international justice and accountability.” 

H.R. 23 mandates the Administration impose mandatory sanctions and visa restrictions on any foreign person and their immediate family who directly or materially aids the International Criminal Court (ICC) in investigating, detaining, arresting, or prosecuting any United States or foreign person who is a citizen or lawful resident of an ally of the United States that has not consented to the Court’s jurisdiction. 

These sanctions and visa restrictions could apply to court staff, witnesses, judges, or U.S. allies—as well as members of their families—who provide any form of support to the court on a wide range of subjects.

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