ICC president calls on nations to cooperate in enforcing arrest warrants

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International Criminal Court (ICC) President Judge Tomoko Akane called on Tuesday for greater support from UN member states to enforce the Court’s outstanding arrest warrants. Presenting the ICC’s 2025 Annual Report to the UN General Assembly, Akane noted that 33 warrants remain unexecuted and stressed that international justice depends on the cooperation of states.

Unexecuted warrants and high-profile cases

Akane underscored that despite enhanced tracking capabilities, the ICC lacks the authority to make arrests without the assistance of national governments. Among the active cases, she highlighted ongoing investigations involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, both accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity stemming from Israel’s military campaign in Palestine.

Victims at the heart of ICC’s mission

Reaffirming the Court’s commitment to victims, Akane said the ICC seeks to give survivors of atrocities “a voice and the hope that truth will be acknowledged.” She emphasized that the institution’s work on reparations and restorative justice aims to rebuild war-torn communities and provide accountability for those affected by conflict.

Commitment to international justice

Despite growing political and logistical challenges, Akane insisted that the ICC remains dedicated to its judicial mission. “The Court will continue to pursue individual criminal responsibility with full independence and impartiality,” she said. Akane added that through this work, the ICC contributes to strengthening the rule of law and advancing international accountability — principles supported by Türkiye and other states committed to justice.