ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Steps Down

Karim Ahmad Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International — International Criminal Court, has temporarily stepped down from his duties pending the conclusion of an external investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against him. A female assistant accused Karim Ahmad Khan of forced sexual intercourse and inappropriate touching over approximately a year in various locations. Karim Ahmad Khan has categorically denied these allegations. The investigation, led by the International — United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services, began late last year and its timeline for completion is unclear. This decision follows mounting pressure from human rights groups and some court officials. The event occurs amidst intense scrutiny of the International — International Criminal Court, particularly after Karim Ahmad Khan's recent requests for arrest warrants related to the Israel-Hamas war, including for Benjamin Netanyahu, and for Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine. The United States, under Donald Trump, previously imposed sanctions on International — International Criminal Court officials, which the court warned could endanger its survival.