Ocean County Leader

The House of Representatives has passed the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act (HR 23) with a vote of 243-140. This legislation aims to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) for what is described as its antisemitism and abuse of power, particularly following the attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens on October 7, 2023.

Representative Chris Smith (R-Manchester), who supported the bill, criticized the ICC's recent arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. He labeled this move as "a grotesquely bad decision by a court that is corrupted by blatant antisemitism."

Smith stated, “The ICC’s actions support Hamas’ explicitly antisemitic and genocidal campaign of terror against Israel, and Congress must respond in the most forceful way possible.” He further emphasized that "antisemitism is at the root of Hamas violence against Israel," referencing Hamas' 1988 Charter which calls for the destruction of Israel.

Smith also noted that this action by the ICC reflects a broader trend of international organizations promoting antisemitism. He previously chaired congressional hearings exposing such issues within entities like the United Nations.

A similar bill was passed by the House last June but did not progress in the then Democrat-controlled Senate. With Republicans now controlling the Senate, Smith expressed hope for a different outcome this time. He urged, “The Senate should immediately pass this critical legislation,” adding that “the ICC is a rogue actor on the world stage.”

Smith concluded by stressing the need for accountability among international organizations regarding antisemitism and corruption. He stated, “Israel needs the ability to defend itself—and they need friends and partners who will stand beside them.”