South African judge Navi Pillay wins 2026 Nobel Peace Prize hours before US imposes sanctions on International Criminal Court. Pillay, 85, chaired UN inquiry into Gaza genocide and served on ICC Appeals Chamber. US sanctions target ICC and companies linked to it, risking diplomatic tensions with European allies.
Pillay, a former UN rights chief, was awarded the Nobel for promoting international justice. She chaired the UN inquiry that concluded Israel committed genocide in Gaza and served as defense lawyer for Nelson Mandela. The sanctions come as Trump administration seeks to undermine ICC's work, with Secretary of State Rubio calling it a 'rogue court'.
The sanctions could disrupt ICC operations by banning US companies from working with the court. ICC deputy prosecutor Khan condemned the move, calling it a threat to international law. The court, which has 125 member states, faces potential fallout with US allies. The sanctions include exemptions for certain transactions, but could still hinder the court's ability to function.
US has previously targeted ICC, with sanctions on officials during Trump's first term. The court, based in Netherlands, has prepared for potential sanctions by shifting to open-source software and adjusting banking arrangements. The sanctions aim to pressure member states to address US concerns, but the court remains committed to its mission.