ICC confirms external investigation into prosecutor Karim Khan’s alleged misconduct amid growing controversy.
The International Criminal Court’s (ICC’s) governing body has confirmed it is seeking an “external probe” into allegations of sexual misconduct by the court’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan.
“After consulting the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), I am seeking on behalf of the ASP Presidency an external investigation into the alleged misconduct by the ICC Prosecutor,” ASP President Paivi Kaukoranta said in a statement on Monday. The ASP has called on all involved parties to cooperate fully, describing the probe as essential for “a fully independent, impartial and fair process.”
How has Karim Khan responded?
Khan, who previously denied the allegations, said on Monday he would continue with his duties while the investigation is ongoing. “I welcome the opportunity to engage in this process,” Khan, 54, said in a statement, adding that he “will be continuing all other functions as prosecutor.”
Kaukoranta had issued a statement last month confirming the ASP’s initial investigation “on the basis of a third-party report.” At that time, the ICC’s Independent Oversight Mechanism (IOM) contacted the alleged victim but could not advance the investigation without a formal complaint. The IOM’s recent report noted that although the incident was reported in May, the alleged victim chose not to pursue a formal complaint or confirm the report’s basis.
What other pressures has the prosecutor faced?
Since taking office in 2021, Khan has led high-profile war crimes investigations involving Russia, Ukraine, Palestine, and Israel. In May, he sought arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense chief, and three Hamas leaders. The move sparked backlash, with Netanyahu condemning it as “a moral outrage,” while U.S. President Joe Biden labeled it “outrageous.”
What does Khan say about external pressures?
Khan argues the allegations fit into a misinformation campaign aimed at his office. “This is a moment in which myself and the International Criminal Court are subject to a wide range of attacks and threats,” he said last month. Critics have accused Khan of both slow action and controversial steps in cases like Gaza, adding to the scrutiny surrounding his leadership.
