BRUSSELS: The Euro­pean Union on Saturday declared its support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), voicing “serious concern” after the US revoked the chief prosecutor’s visa over a possible investigation into American soldiers’ actions in Afghanistan.

Prosecutor Fatou Ben-so­uda’s office confirmed on Friday that Washington had revoked her visa for entry into the US — a move that came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced restrictions on ICC staff who probed US or allied personnel.

A spokesperson for the EU’s diplomatic service said the bloc “fully supports the ICC and its independence” and said Brussels expected the US to comply with its “international obligations” toward the court.

“The European Union reiterates its serious concern about the US policy toward the ICC,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

“The ICC plays a key role in the fight against impunity.

“The EU emphasises that protecting the neutrality and judicial independence of the ICC is paramount to its effectiveness and proper functioning.”

Bensouda asked ICC judges in November 2017 for authorisation to open an investigation into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan by the Taliban, Afghan government forces and international forces including US troops.

The court has not yet decided whether to launch a full-blown probe.

The US has never joined the ICC and does not recognise its authority over American citizens, saying it poses a threat to national sovereignty.

Washington also argues that it has its own robust procedures in place to deal with US troops who engage in misconduct.

Published in Dawn, April 7th, 2019