ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Removed Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Member states of the International Criminal Court (ICC) ousted Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan on July 25, 2026, following allegations of sexual assault and sexual misconduct.

The decision followed a session convened by ICC member countries to determine the future of the prosecutor’s tenure. Reports from DW and RTVE indicate the meeting was a direct response to the accusations.

Allegations of Sexual Aggression

The dismissal was triggered specifically by accusations of sexual aggression and misconduct, according to reports from El Correo and elDiario.es.

According to elDiario.es, Khan was removed from his post after these accusations of sexual misconduct surfaced. RTVE and El Correo further specified that the charges involved sexual aggression.

The process culminated in a formal session where member countries deliberated on the prosecutor’s status. ABC reported that the countries opened this session specifically to decide the future of Khan’s role before the final decision to dismiss him was reached.

A Leadership Vacuum in The Hague

The move marks a significant leadership change for the Hague-based tribunal. The ICC is tasked with prosecuting individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.

As the highest-ranking official responsible for overseeing investigations and prosecutions, the Chief Prosecutor holds immense authority. The removal of the prosecutor by member states indicates a direct intervention by the Assembly of States Parties to address conduct issues within the office of the prosecutor.

Impact on Global Prosecutions

The dismissal occurs while the court manages high-profile international investigations.

By removing the top prosecutor due to allegations of personal misconduct, the ICC now faces a leadership vacuum in the very office responsible for initiating legal proceedings against alleged war criminals globally.