The International Criminal Court has removed Prosecutor Karim Khan following sexual misconduct allegations. However, his legal team described the decision as politically motivated.
The Assembly of States Parties approved Khan’s dismissal on Friday. The vote followed months of scrutiny surrounding allegations against the British barrister.
Khan stepped aside in June after an oversight panel reported serious misconduct. Nevertheless, he has consistently denied all allegations.
His lawyer, Tayab Ali, argued the dismissal ignored an independent judicial panel’s findings. The panel reportedly found no misconduct under the applicable legal framework.
Defence Claims Political Pressure Influenced Decision
Ali said the removal process lacked fairness and proper legal safeguards. Furthermore, he argued Khan never received a meaningful opportunity to defend himself.
He also highlighted ongoing US sanctions against Khan and several ICC officials. According to the defence, those sanctions increased political pressure on the court.
The ICC announced deputy prosecutors Nazhat Shameen Khan and Mame Mandiaye Niang will lead the office. Meanwhile, the court pledged to continue independent investigations.
Netanyahu Warrants Remain Legally Unaffected
Khan’s removal does not affect existing arrest warrants issued by the ICC. Judges alone can withdraw warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.
The warrants prompted criticism from Israel and the United States after their issuance in 2024. Consequently, Khan’s supporters argued political factors influenced recent developments.
Israeli officials welcomed Khan’s dismissal and criticised the ICC investigation. However, Palestinian representatives rejected attempts to connect the prosecutor’s removal with the ongoing case.
The ICC reaffirmed its commitment to impartial investigations and justice for victims worldwide.
