The International Criminal Court (ICC) has suspended its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, with immediate effect as an investigation into misconduct allegations continues. The decision was taken by a committee within the court’s oversight body and has been referred to the ICC’s 125 member states, which will vote on Khan’s future during a special session. Khan has denied all allegations, while his legal team has called the suspension unfair and unsupported by evidence.

The allegations, first reported in 2024, involve claims of sexual misconduct and abuse of authority. An initial internal investigation was closed after the complainant chose not to participate, but a second inquiry led by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services examined thousands of pages of evidence and testimony between late 2024 and 2025. The findings are now being reviewed to determine whether Khan committed serious misconduct.

The case comes at a sensitive time for the ICC, which has faced political pressure following its actions related to the Gaza conflict. While some staff members have expressed concerns about Khan’s potential return, supporters argue that the allegations remain unproven. If member states decide to remove him from office, Khan could challenge the decision through international employment tribunals, potentially leading to a prolonged legal battle.

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