Netherlands braces for US sanctions on ICC, seeks to shield court operations

The Netherlands is preparing contingency measures to keep the International Criminal Court operational amid anticipated U.S. sanctions, focusing on staff salaries, witness protection, and detention security. The move signals a direct state-level confrontation between Washington and The Hague over ICC jurisdiction, with the Netherlands acting to insulate the court from financial and operational disruption. The exact scope and timing of U.S. sanctions remain unconfirmed, but Dutch preparations indicate a high-stakes diplomatic clash.