Reaffirming that the United States is not a party to the Rome Statute and does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
This House Resolution (H. Res. 9) states a non-binding policy position: the United States is not a party to the Rome Statute and does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC). It provides historical context on U.S. engagement with the Rome Statute (President Clinton’s signature without Senate ratification, the Bush administration’s decision not to pursue ratification) and notes ICC actions in 2024 involving Israeli leaders. The resolution condemns the ICC’s arrest warrant applications for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and reaffirms strong U.S. support for Israel and its right to defend itself and its leaders from international legal actions. As a resolution, it expresses Congressional sentiment rather than creating or changing law.
Key Points
- 1Reaffirms that the United States is not a party to the Rome Statute and does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.
- 2Cites constitutional requirements for treaty ratification (two-thirds of Senators present) and references historical context: Clinton’s signing of the Rome Statute, and the Bush administration’s statement that the U.S. would not become a party.
- 3References Article 125 of the Rome Statute as stating it is subject to ratification by signatory States.
- 4Condemns the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrant applications for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant (May 20, 2024).
- 5Reiterates unwavering support for the State of Israel and its right to defend itself and its leaders from unwarranted international legal actions.
- 6Notes this is a House Resolution, i.e., a non-binding expression of Congress’ policy and views.