Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten urged world leaders at the UN to protect the ICC, criticizing U.S. threats of sanctions against the tribunal.

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten used his address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York to defend the International Criminal Court (ICC) against threats of U.S. sanctions. Jetten warned that attempts to undermine the Hague-based institution threaten the international legal order as a whole. His remarks followed a speech by U.S. President Donald Trump, who labeled the ICC a "rogue institution" and called for member nations to resign.

Defense of International Institutions

Jetten told world leaders that the international community must respond to threats against the ICC by demanding that nations keep their "hands off" the court and similar organizations. He emphasized that the ICC was established to combat impunity and that its independence is vital to protecting the international legal order. Jetten stated that all diplomatic resources are being deployed to ensure the court can continue its work without hindrance.

Broader Calls for Global Cooperation

Beyond the ICC, Jetten addressed growing pressures on international law, citing humanitarian crises in Gaza and Sudan. He urged middle powers to take a leadership role in fostering global cooperation, suggesting that nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America should have a greater voice in decision-making. Additionally, Jetten questioned whether the development of artificial intelligence should be managed by a small group of companies and countries or addressed collectively through the UN.