ICC Ousts Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court has voted to remove its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, amid sexual misconduct allegations. The decision, made at an emergency UN session, marks the first time a chief prosecutor has been ousted. Khan denies the allegations, which include engaging in a sexual relationship with a female aide and attempting to prevent her from pursuing the claims.

The ICC's oversight body found Khan guilty of "serious misconduct and serious breach of duty." His removal comes as the court faces significant challenges, including a US-led campaign to dismantle it. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced plans to pressure member states to withdraw, sanction organizations working with the ICC, and ban ICC staff from traveling to the US.

Hours after the vote, Venezuela announced its withdrawal from the ICC, citing geographical bias against African and Latin American countries. The ICC had recently dropped an investigation into US sanctions against Venezuela but continues to investigate possible crimes by Venezuelan security forces.

The US has already sanctioned Khan and other ICC staff over investigations into US personnel in Afghanistan and Israeli officials in Gaza. Experts note that political considerations, especially regarding Western allies, have influenced the situation.

Khan's removal will not immediately affect the arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. The ICC will elect a new prosecutor shortly.