The International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced an external investigation into its Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan, following allegations of sexual misconduct. The ICC’s governing body confirmed on Monday that an independent and impartial probe would be conducted to ensure fair handling of the matter, urging all involved to cooperate fully.
Karim Khan, who is currently overseeing investigations into alleged war crimes, including those in the Israel-Gaza conflict, stated that he would remain in his role while the investigation progresses. Any relevant matters pertaining to the probe will be managed by deputy prosecutors, he added.
Khan has previously denied the misconduct allegations, which were first reported to the ICC’s governing body last month. In response, he requested that the Court’s internal oversight body also investigate the claims.
The allegations come during ongoing ICC deliberations over Khan’s earlier request for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s Defence Minister, and leaders of Hamas. Khan suggested that the misconduct claims may be linked to a broader misinformation campaign targeting his office.
The ICC, established as a permanent institution, holds the authority to prosecute individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression in member states or involving their nationals.
