Japan Calls US ICC Sanctions 'Deeply Regrettable' As Washington Retreats From Global Bodies

Japan on Wednesday called a U.S. move to sanction senior members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) deeply regrettable, as Washington assails and scales back participation in international bodies it claims fail to serve American interests. The move by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump presents a dilemma for Tokyo, a strong backer of multilateral groupings and a key American ally. In order to ensure accountability for and eradicate the most serious crimes of concern to the international community and to uphold the rule of law, Japan has consistently supported the International Criminal Court, the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo said. The ministry said Japan would continue to work to strengthen the rule of law in the international community, while maintaining communication with relevant countries.