The US government designated ICC officials, including President Akane Tomoko (赤根智子), for sanctions. In response, the Aichi Bar Association issued a statement by its president calling on the Japanese government to take a firm stance.
On 18 August, the US government designated ICC President Akane Tomoko (赤根智子) and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Sy (アブドゥライ・セイ) for sanctions, announcing that their assets in the United States would be frozen and that they would be barred from entering the country. This is expected to effectively cut them off from the US financial system.
In a telephone interview with Sankei Shimbun, President Akane said it would become difficult for her to use credit cards issued by US companies and US IT services, including Gmail.
The Aichi Bar Association issued a statement by its president saying it “strongly protests” the sanctions imposed over the performance of President Akane's and Mr. Sy's duties. The statement also calls on the Japanese government to protect the ICC's independence and impartiality.
The ICC has also reportedly faced growing international pressure in the past over issues including arrest warrants for individuals in Russia and Israel. In response to the expansion of the sanctions, the association continues to call on the Japanese government to protect the ICC's independence and impartiality.