The United States has imposed financial sanctions on three prominent Palestinian human rights organizations following their petition to the International Criminal Court regarding alleged war crimes in Gaza. The targeted groups include the Gaza-based Palestinian Centre for Human Rights and Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, along with Ramallah-based Al-Haq.
These organizations face restrictions under ICC-related designations, according to the US Treasury Department. The sanctions will significantly impact the groups’ operations, complicating their ability to collaborate with international partners and creating additional challenges for their staff members.
US officials justified the measures by citing the organizations’ engagement with ICC proceedings involving Israeli nationals without Israel’s consent. The three groups had previously requested the court examine military operations in densely populated areas of Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian access to the territory.
In a joint statement, the sanctioned organizations condemned the US action as unlawful and undemocratic. They have been documenting alleged violations throughout the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in extensive civilian casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure in Gaza.
The ICC has previously issued arrest warrants for senior Israeli officials and Hamas leaders concerning alleged war crimes. While the court has jurisdiction across 124 member states, several major powers including the United States and Israel do not recognize its authority.
Separately, the International Court of Justice has previously indicated that allegations of genocide in Gaza warranted further examination, though its rulings remain advisory rather than legally binding. The conflict continues despite international legal proceedings, with humanitarian conditions in Gaza deteriorating significantly since hostilities began.
