Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is under scrutiny regarding the country’s commitment to the rule of law following U.S. sanctions against International Criminal Court President Tomoko Akane, the first Japanese to lead the organization. Initially, Takaichi merely said that the U.S. sanctions against Akane were “very regrettable.” This led to criticism as the remark was perceived as a weak response. The focus now is on whether Japan can dissuade the United States from seeking to “dismantle” the ICC.
On Tuesday, Takaichi told reporters that the U.S. sanctions were “incompatible with the Japanese position and we take them seriously.” “We must protect Ms. Akane and the precious organization of the ICC as the largest contributor to it,” the prime minister also said. Japan values the rule of law and has consistently supported the court.
The government is on high alert for further U.S. sanctions. If the ICC itself becomes a target, its operations could be severely affected. She urged the Japanese government to make “maximum efforts,” including by engaging with the United States.
The government plans to respond in close cooperation with Akane. On Friday, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi held phone talks with Akane to discuss the situation surrounding the ICC. However, it remains unclear how assertive Japan can be as the country has made its alliance with the United States the cornerstone of its diplomacy and security policy.
The government has not protested or called for a withdrawal following the latest sanctions. That inaction has drawn criticism, even from within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. However, a government official said, “We can’t be too tough on the United States.” Under the banner of the rule of law, the Takaichi administration has criticized China and Russia for attempting to change the status quo by force.
If Japan turns a blind eye to threats to the rule of law out of consideration for the United States, its credibility could be significantly undermined. Public opinion is also scrutinizing the government’s handling of the issue.
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