Ireland is to join with nearly 80 countries in condemning sanctions imposed by US president Donald Trump against the International Criminal Court.
On Thursday Mr Trump signed an executive order which accuses the International Criminal Court of having “engaged in illegitimate and baseless actions” targeting the US and its “close ally” Israel.
However, on Friday Taoiseach Micheál Martin urged that the sanctions imposed by Washington be withdrawn while the Tánaiste Simon Harris is understood to have backed Ireland joining a planned international statement criticising the move.
Mr Trump’s executive order said the court had “abused its power” by issuing “baseless” arrest warrants targeting Israel’s prime minister, Binyamin Netanyahu, and its former defence minister, Yoav Gallant.
However, it is understood that Ireland will be one of 76 countries to condemn publicly the move by the US president.
A senior Government source said on Friday that it was vital that the International Criminal Court was allowed to carry out its important work in an independent and impartial manner.
Mr Harris is believed to be deeply concerned at the decision by Mr Trump and on Friday agreed that Ireland should support the statement by the group of nations criticising the move to sanction the court.
It is understood that there are about 12 Irish people employed by the International Criminal Court.
On Friday morning the Taoiseach said he did not agree with the move by Mr Trump.
“First of all, Ireland has been a strong supporter of the international courts system and international humanitarian law. I have met Karim Khan and I don’t believe he has any agenda against Israel or against the US. “
“It is a serious decision and I would ask that it would be rescinded and withdrawn because we do need international rule of law. “
“There are challenges and disputes, that I acknowledge, but I believe the people working in the ICC are acting in good faith and don’t have any agenda against any particular country.”
Mr Trump’s order says the US will impose “tangible and significant consequences” on those responsible for the ICC’s “transgressions.”
Actions may include blocking property and assets and not allowing ICC officials, employees and relatives to enter the United States.
