Japan has approached with caution the recent decision by the United States to impose sanctions on Tomoko Akane, the president of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed that the sanctions are “very unfortunate,” and noted Japan’s intention to continue discussions with the United States and other relevant countries. Japanese officials have stressed the importance of maintaining strong relations with the US, considering it Japan’s only treaty ally.
Japan stands as the largest financial supporter of the ICC and has contributed significantly in terms of personnel. Tomoko Akane, a national of Japan and a former prosecutor, joined the ICC as a judge in 2018 and ascended to the presidency in 2024, marking a historic first for a Japanese citizen in this position. The United States, on the other hand, has adopted a more adversarial stance towards the ICC, with President Donald Trump authorizing sanctions against its personnel in February 2025. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has further indicated Washington’s intent to weaken the court and rally its allies to oppose it.
Previously, Japan refrained from joining an international statement denouncing the US sanctions, citing the importance of its relationship with Washington. Akane later criticized this decision, urging Japan to adopt a firmer stance in support of the ICC and uphold the rule of law. Despite this cautious stance publicly, Japan’s government has historically shown its support for both the ICC and Akane.
During a visit to Japan in January, Prime Minister Takaichi met with Akane and reaffirmed Tokyo’s commitment to the ICC’s mission. This meeting underlined Japan’s ongoing support for the court and its role in the international justice system, despite the challenging diplomatic landscape presented by the US’s recent actions.