THE HAGUE, Netherlands — On Monday, the oversight body of the International Criminal Court announced the initiation of an external investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan. The decision comes following a brief internal inquiry that was abruptly concluded after just five days. Khan has expressed his intention to remain in his position while the investigation is underway.
The Assembly of States Parties (ASP) made the announcement emphasizing the need for an unbiased and thorough examination of the situation. ASP president Päivi Kaukoranta highlighted the importance of conducting an independent review to ensure fairness. Khan has firmly rejected the claims suggesting that he attempted to pressure a female aide into a sexual relationship. These allegations arise amid reports concerning a broader campaign, allegedly led by Israeli intelligence, aimed at undermining the court’s legal actions against Benjamin Netanyahu related to purported war crimes in Gaza.
An investigation by the Associated Press revealed that two employees of the court, to whom the alleged victim confided, came forward with these accusations in May. Notably, this was shortly before Khan sought arrest warrants against Netanyahu, his defense minister, and several Hamas leaders on war crimes allegations. A panel of three judges is currently deliberating on this request.
Reports indicate that Khan frequently traveled with the woman following her transfer to his office from another division within the ICC’s headquarters in The Hague. In a statement made on Monday, Khan acknowledged the ongoing investigation and noted that he has delegated the handling of the situation to his two deputy prosecutors.
“I welcome the opportunity to engage in this process,” Khan stated, emphasizing that he would continue to fulfill his duties as Prosecutor while the investigation takes place. He expressed his commitment to carrying out all responsibilities related to his mandate at the International Criminal Court.
Details regarding the composition of the external investigation remain unclear, although Kaukoranta mentioned that the specifics are currently being finalized. Sources suggest that it could involve law enforcement personnel from Europe as well as a law firm.
Furthermore, there has been discussion about involving the United Nations’ internal oversight body, though this might present potential conflict-of-interest issues due to Khan’s wife’s previous role with the agency in Kenya, where she dealt with investigations into sexual harassment claims.
The ASP indicated that the court’s Internal Oversight Mechanism did not object to the launch of an external investigation. However, it is noted that the internal watchdog had spoken to the woman, who ultimately chose not to file a formal complaint due to her lack of confidence in the internal processes. Khan was not questioned during the brief internal investigation, which was halted within five days, though the watchdog did recommend he limit his interactions with the accuser.