Former Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani has called on Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to adopt a firmer stance against the sanctions imposed by the United States on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its Japanese president, Tomoko Akane. Nakatani characterized these sanctions as a challenge to the rules-based international order and urged the Japanese government to insist that Washington retract these measures.
Nakatani emphasized that Japan should balance its strong security alliance with the United States with its commitment to upholding the rule of law and supporting the ICC. He cautioned that if Japan remains silent on this issue, it could weaken its credibility with international allies, including the United States. This appeal precedes Takaichi’s anticipated visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly, during which she may have the opportunity to meet with President Donald Trump. A bipartisan group of Japanese lawmakers, under Nakatani’s leadership, intends to formally present their demands to the government.
Previously, Takaichi has expressed that the US sanctions against the ICC are unfortunate and do not align with Japan’s policies. However, Nakatani is urging Tokyo to issue a stronger protest and explicitly demand the withdrawal of the sanctions against Akane and the court. The US has justified the sanctions by accusing the ICC of overstepping its authority, particularly in investigations involving Israeli officials and US military personnel. These sanctions encompass restrictions on assets under US jurisdiction and limitations on entry into the United States.
Despite the sanctions, Akane has remained resolute in her commitment to her work. She has called on Japan and other ICC member states to defend the court and encourage the US to avoid further escalating the situation.