Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed her country’s unwavering commitment to the International Criminal Court during remarks to the United Nations General Assembly this week. Takaichi emphasized that postwar Japan has prioritized adherence to the rule of law and multilateral institutions, positioning the nation’s ICC support as consistent with its founding principles.
Takaichi’s public backing follows mounting domestic pressure on her administration to defend the court after the United States announced sanctions targeting the entire organization in August. The pressure intensified when Trump renewed his attacks on the institution during his general assembly speech, denouncing it as “out of control” and calling for all member nations to immediately withdraw. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ICC as an “intolerable threat” to American sovereignty and called for its dismantling.
The Japanese leader navigated a delicate diplomatic balance during her remarks, refraining from direct criticism of the Trump administration. Officials in Tokyo face competing concerns: safeguarding the ICC while preserving crucial ties to Washington amid regional security challenges. Tokyo is reportedly worried about potential leverage the administration might exert regarding Taiwan during upcoming trade discussions.
The ICC’s leadership includes ICC President Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national who has headed the organization since 2024. Akane has stated she will not be deterred by sanctions threats, declaring that “the ICC will never be defeated” and that “justice will and should prevail.” Earlier reports indicated that cross-party Japanese lawmakers, including former defence minister Gen Nakatani, had urged Takaichi to demand that the United States withdraw its sanctions. Takaichi disclosed having a “candid exchange” with Trump about the court during their general assembly discussions.
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