ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Suspended Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court’s governing body has suspended Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan with immediate effect as he faces allegations of sexual misconduct involving a member of his office.

The 21-member Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP) voted by a qualified majority on Monday to suspend Khan and refer the matter to the full ASP, which represents all ICC member states and will make the final decision on the case.

The bureau stressed that the suspension should not be interpreted as a judgment on the allegations or their eventual outcome.

The move is expected to have limited impact on the court’s day-to-day operations, as Khan voluntarily stepped aside in May 2025 while contesting the accusations, which he has denied. He has also been removed from participation in the ICC’s high-profile proceedings against former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte.

A special session of the Assembly of States Parties is expected to be convened soon to consider the matter.

Khan, a British lawyer, gained international prominence after seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant over the Gaza conflict. His actions drew sharp criticism from Israel and its ally, the United States, which later imposed sanctions on him.