Sanctions Initiated by Former President Trump

In a notable legal battle unfolding in federal court in Maine, two human rights advocates have initiated a lawsuit contesting former President Donald Trump’s economic sanctions against International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan. The plaintiffs argue that the sanctions infringe upon their First Amendment rights, particularly Trump’s directive which bars U.S. citizens from providing any services or materials to Khan.

The Case Background

This lawsuit is spearheaded by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of Matthew Smith, co-founder of the human rights organization Fortify Rights, and international lawyer Akila Radhakrishnan.

Trump’s sanctions were implemented following Khan’s issuance of an arrest warrant targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, based on allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Impact on Human Rights Investigations

The plaintiffs assert that the sanctions impede their ability to assist the ICC in investigating various human rights abuses. Smith, who has provided evidence concerning serious crimes against the Rohingya people in Myanmar, expressed frustration over being unable to continue his work with the ICC. He stated, “This executive order doesn’t just disrupt our work—it actively undermines international justice efforts and obstructs the path to accountability for communities facing unthinkable horrors.”

ACLU’s Position on Constitutional Rights

According to Charlie Hogle, a staff attorney at the ACLU’s National Security Project, the sanctions are “unconstitutional” as they prevent humanitarian groups and individuals from engaging in their vital work with the ICC.

Radhakrishnan highlighted her commitment to holding the Taliban accountable for systematic violence against women and girls in Afghanistan, asserting that this legal action is necessary to protect her rights as a human rights advocate.

Concerns from Human Rights Organizations

In March, Amnesty International cautioned that sanctions imposed by Trump could severely hinder the pursuit of justice for numerous victims, particularly in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. They emphasized that the ICC relies on the cooperation of member states for effective investigations and prosecutions.

Amnesty’s statement noted, “Ultimately, the sanctions will harm all of the ICC’s investigations, not just those opposed by the U.S. government.” This includes investigations in countries like Ukraine, Uganda, and areas affected by conflicts such as Darfur.