Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi vowed Japan would defend the International Criminal Court (ICC) against U.S. efforts to dismantle it, following Washington’s sanctioning of ICC President Tomoko Akane. The move marks a rare diplomatic rift between the U.S. and Japan, with Takaichi emphasizing Tokyo’s role as the court’s largest financial backer.
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to defend the International Criminal Court (ICC) against U.S. efforts to undermine it, following Washington’s recent sanctions targeting ICC President Tomoko Akane. The decision, announced during a press conference on August 25, 2026, underscores a rare public disagreement between the U.S. and its longtime ally Japan, with Takaichi framing the ICC as a critical institution for global justice.
Takaichi’s Stance and Diplomatic Efforts
Tokyo has repeatedly urged the U.S. to reconsider the sanctions, with Takaichi noting various levels
in diplomatic discussions. However, the U.S. has maintained its position, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio accusing the ICC of being a corrupt and fatally politicized supranational court that has maliciously abused its authority
and exceeded its mandate. Rubio warned of further measures to systematically dismantle the ICC until it is incapable of threatening American sovereignty.
The Japanese prime minister’s remarks followed criticism from within her own ruling party and a multiparty group of lawmakers, including former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and ex-Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, who called for a clearer protest.
Despite this, Takaichi signaled Tokyo would continue supporting Akane and consider further diplomatic actions as needed.
U.S. Criticism and Historical Context
The U.S. has long opposed the ICC, accusing it of overstepping its mandate. During former President Donald Trump’s administration, sanctions were imposed on an ICC prosecutor and her aide for investigating U.S. military actions in Afghanistan. The court later issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in 2024 over Gaza war crimes, a move the Biden administration rejected, citing the U.S. and Israel’s non-participation in the ICC.
Rubio’s recent statements reflect a broader U.S. strategy to weaken the ICC, which has issued 60 arrest warrants, including for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The court, established in 2002 in The Hague, Netherlands, faces ongoing challenges from states that refuse to recognize its jurisdiction. Takaichi’s defense of the ICC contrasts with U.S. rhetoric, highlighting tensions over global governance and national sovereignty.
Japan’s position is complicated by its security alliance with the U.S. However, Takaichi framed her remarks as a defense of multilateralism, stating, As the largest financial contributor to the ICC, we must protect this important institution.
Her comments align with Japan’s historical support for international institutions, despite recent shifts toward pragmatic diplomacy.
Domestic and International Reactions
The immediate next step for Japan is to determine how to respond to the U.S. sanctions while maintaining its alliance with Washington. Takaichi hinted at further representations
to the U.S. but stopped short of specifying actions. The ICC, meanwhile, faces continued pressure to navigate its relationship with non-member states like the U.S. and Israel.
Analysts suggest the dispute could escalate if the U.S. implements additional measures against the ICC. Japan’s ability to balance its strategic interests with its commitment to international law will be closely watched. Meanwhile, the ICC’s leadership will assess how to maintain its credibility amid growing challenges from powerful nations.
The situation underscores broader tensions between national sovereignty and global justice, with Japan’s stance serving as a test of its diplomatic priorities. As the U.S. continues its campaign against the ICC, the world will watch to see whether multilateral institutions can withstand pressure from major powers.
