Akane Tomoko, International Criminal Court President / There is no truth to the U.S. claim that the ICC is a corrupt political organization that has abused international law to undermine the independence of sovereign states. Furthermore, there is no truth to the claim that I have been complicit in such actions. Like the judges and prosecutors who have been sanctioned before me, I can state categorically that there is absolutely no reason for me to be subject to sanctions. I would like people to regard the sanctions against the ICC not just as an issue for the ICC, but as a crisis for the rule of law itself.

ICC President Akane Tomoko spoke to reporters after the United States imposed sanctions on her and other ICC judges last week.

The measure will de facto bar Akane and the lawyers from entering the United States and freeze their assets in the United States.

Akane called on the Japanese government to do everything possible to uphold the ICC and the rule of law around the world.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae said Japan will take necessary steps in response to the sanctions.

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae / From the perspective of protecting Japanese nationals, we must protect President Akane. Also, as the ICC’s largest financial contributor, we must also safeguard this important organization. We will closely monitor the situation, including whether further measures are taken, and take the necessary steps at the appropriate time.

Takaichi also said Japan had engaged with the Trump administration at various levels until just before the sanctions were announced.

She said the government had advised Akane on how to avoid potential problems with financial transactions, including money transfers.

Takaichi said the sanctions were incompatible with Japan’s position and viewed them with great concern.