The House is set to pass legislation sanctioning the International Criminal Court in response to its arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This move is expected to be one of the first actions of the new Congress.
The bill will then move to the Senate, where Republican Majority Leader John Thune has pledged a prompt vote to have it on President-elect Donald Trump’s desk before he assumes office.
During the previous House vote on the bill in June, 42 Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the legislation, despite opposition from President Joe Biden.
Rep. Thomas Massie raised concerns about the bill's priority in the new congressional term, questioning why protecting Netanyahu was a week-one focus.
The legislation was reintroduced by Texas Reps. Chip Roy and Foreign Affairs Chairman Brian Mast, both Republicans.
ICC prosecutor Karim Khan requested arrest warrants for Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Ismail Haniyeh, and Mohammed Deif on May 20. The warrants were granted by ICC judges in November.
The Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act aims to sanction any foreigner working against U.S. citizens or allies, including Israel. It also seeks to withhold funds designated for the ICC and prevent future financial support.
Sen. Tom Cotton has introduced companion legislation in the Senate to support the House's efforts. With Republicans in control, Senate Majority Leader Thune is determined to pass the bill and have it signed into law before President-elect Trump's inauguration.
