Afghanistan: ICC stops probe into alleged crimes by US troops, shifts focus to Taliban actions
Court redirects Afghanistan inquiry
A decision by judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) pauses the prosecutor’s inquiry into alleged crimes by American troops in Afghanistan. Court documents released on Friday say the prosecutor will instead focus on the Taliban’s actions since 2021.
The investigation began in 2020 and covered alleged offences dating to 2002. Those under examination included Afghan government forces, the Taliban, US troops and US foreign intelligence operatives.
Prosecutor’s office appeals ruling
The prosecutor’s office told The Associated Press and Reuters that it has appealed the judges’ decision. The article does not say when the appeal will be considered. It also notes that Khan was removed from the court earlier this year over sexual misconduct allegations.
Court’s authority under statute
The ICC’s founding statute permits it to prosecute people accused of atrocity crimes committed on the territory of member states. The article says the decision to halt the US-related Afghanistan inquiry does not clarify how the United States will respond.
Key points
- ICC judges halted the investigation into alleged crimes by US troops in Afghanistan.
- The court will focus instead on Taliban actions since 2021.
- The prosecutor’s office has appealed the decision.
- The Afghanistan investigation began in 2020 and covered alleged offences dating back to 2002.