US Federal House Bill HR9

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/25
• Refer: 1/3/25

Caption

This resolution reaffirms that the United States in not a party to the Rome Statute and does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC).  The resolution also (1) condemns the ICC's issuance of arrest warrant applications for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, and (2) supports Israel's right to defend itself and its leaders from unwarranted international legal actions. 

Impact

The resolution has significant implications for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding its relationship with international legal institutions. By reaffirming the U.S. stance against the ICC, it signals to both domestic and international audiences that the U.S. prioritizes national sovereignty over international jurisdiction in war crime cases. Furthermore, it reinforces the United States' ongoing support for Israel, particularly in light of recent developments regarding ICC's actions against Israeli officials. This could affect diplomatic relations, especially with countries that are aligned with the ICC’s mission.

Summary

House Resolution 9 (HR9) is a resolution that reaffirms the United States' non-participation in the Rome Statute and its rejections of the International Criminal Court's (ICC) jurisdiction. Introduced by Mr. Biggs of Arizona, the resolution specifies that the U.S. does not recognize the ICC's legitimacy, a stance that has been maintained since the Bush administration in 2002 when it was announced that the United States would not become a party to the Rome Statute. The resolution also reiterates a commitment to Israel and opposes any international legal actions against Israeli leadership.

Contention

Key points of contention involve the balance between national sovereignty and international legal obligations. Supporters argue that the resolution is necessary to protect U.S. sovereignty and support an ally, Israel, against what they view as politically motivated legal actions. Critically, the resolution condemns the ICC's issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli officials, which is seen by its proponents as an infringement on Israeli self-defense rights. Conversely, critics may view this resolution as undermining global efforts to hold individuals accountable for war crimes, potentially eroding international legal norms.

Congress_id

119-HRES-9

Policy_area

International Affairs

Introduced_date

2025-01-03