THREAD: international court

DUTERTE SUPPORTERS Accused of Intimidating ICC Witnesses

25 March 2025 — Attorneys for potential witnesses in the ICC case against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte claim intimidation tactics by Duterte supporters. These accusations suggest attempts to persuade witnesses to withdraw their testimony.

Lawyers warn that these strategies might backfire, bringing more attention and scrutiny to the Duterte camp. This happens as investigations into alleged human rights abuses during his war on drugs continue.

The ICC is evaluating evidence that could lead to charges against Duterte and his allies for crimes against humanity. The situation remains tense as of March 24, 2025.

INTERPOL ARREST Shocks: Former Philippine President in Custody

12 March 2025 — Interpol has detained the former Philippine president after an ICC warrant was issued. The charges stem from his anti-drug campaign, which led to thousands of deaths. This arrest shines a light on global worries about human rights abuses in the Philippines.

In related news, Syrian officials have confessed to breaking humanitarian laws. They attribute these breaches to chaotic groups that allegedly support their security forces. This admission stirs ongoing debates about responsibility in the Syrian conflict.

These events are pivotal moments in international affairs concerning human rights and law enforcement worldwide. If not already making headlines, they highlight important changes in how countries handle such violations globally.

DUTERTE’S Arrest: A Shockwave for Philippine Politics

12 March 2025 — Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested in Manila on an INTERPOL warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). He faces charges of crimes against humanity linked to his war on drugs. Duterte is now headed to The Hague, Netherlands, for trial.

Duterte’s presidency was known for a tough stance on drug crime, drawing criticism from human rights groups. Despite this, he enjoyed strong domestic support during his time in office. The ICC is investigating extrajudicial killings that occurred without due process during his anti-drug campaign.

The arrest has sparked mixed reactions worldwide. Human rights advocates see it as a step toward accountability, while some Duterte supporters view it as an infringement on Philippine sovereignty. This event could affect the Philippines’ future relations with international bodies and its commitment to human rights standards.

Duterte’s trial at the ICC may set important precedents for international law and state accountability regarding human rights violations. As legal proceedings unfold, further updates are expected in this evolving situation.

ITALY Court’s SHOCKING Ruling: Migrants to Get Compensation

08 March 2025 — Italy’s highest court has ordered the government to compensate migrants stranded at sea in 2018. This decision challenges policies by former interior minister Matteo Salvini, known for his strict anti-migration stance. The ruling has ignited controversy and fueled ongoing debates about immigration in Italy and Europe.

Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed strong disapproval of the court’s decision. She criticized it as a threat to Italy’s sovereignty and border control efforts. This comes as European nations struggle with complex immigration issues, sparking widespread discussion across the continent.

In France, an unexploded World War II bomb was discovered near railway tracks, causing major disruptions. High-speed rail services between Paris and cities like London and Brussels were severely affected, leading to significant delays for travelers near Gare du Nord station.

Sudan’s SHOCKING Accusation: UAE’S Alleged Role in Genocide

06 March 2025 — Sudan has taken a bold step by filing a case against the United Arab Emirates at the International Court of Justice. Sudan accuses the UAE of violating the genocide convention, claiming it armed and funded the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), worsening their conflict.

The accusations include serious offenses such as genocide, murder, and human rights violations against the Masalit people. This legal action highlights rising tensions as Sudan faces internal strife fueled by RSF’s activities.

Sudan’s move is seen as crucial for seeking accountability amid civil war chaos. The world watches closely to see how these allegations will unfold on an international stage.

BIDEN in HOT Water: ICC Probe Over Israeli WAR Crimes

25 February 2025 — A US-based human rights group, Dawn, has filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC) against President Joe Biden and his administration. The accusation is about their alleged role in Israeli war crimes in Gaza. Dawn claims that US support enabled actions that qualify as war crimes under international law.

The complaint states that military and political backing from the US allowed targeting civilians and forced displacement in Gaza. Dawn’s legal team argues the ICC is the right place for this case because there are no domestic legal options available. This action aims to hold those responsible accountable for alleged international crimes.

UK JUDGE’S BOLD Decision Stirs Controversy: Palestinian Family Gains Entry

13 February 2025 — A Palestinian family, displaced by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza, applied to enter the U.K. under the Ukraine Family Scheme. Although not Ukrainian, they sought a compassionate interpretation of the law. The British Home Office initially rejected their application last May.

The family appealed to an immigration tribunal judge, who also rejected their case. However, an upper tribunal judge later upheld their appeal in January, citing the European Convention on Human Rights’ “right to family life.” This decision sparked criticism from many in the British political establishment.

Critics argue that allowing this exception could lead to a flood of similar cases from Gaza and accuse judges of overstepping by altering government policy without authority. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp emphasized that judges should not create new schemes based on broad interpretations of human rights law.

Judge Hugo Norton-Taylor defended his ruling by highlighting the severe risks faced by the family’s youngest children if they remained in Gaza. He dismissed concerns about opening floodgates, asserting that his decision was based solely on this case’s unique circumstances and facts.

BRITAIN’S Ancient Coinage Tradition: A Fascinating Ritual

12 February 2025 — In London, an ancient tradition ensures the integrity of British coinage. Judges in red robes gather for the Trial of the PYX, a ceremony dating back to the 12th century. This event inspects and weighs coins from The Royal Mint to prevent counterfeiting.

Eleni Bide from the Goldsmiths’ Company explained that standardized coins deter forgery by ensuring reliability and quality. Nearly 6,500 coins were tested, including future pocket change and collectible editions like Harry Potter and Star Wars themes.

The mint also honored figures such as Paul McCartney and George Orwell with special coin releases this year. A unique sixpence made from recycled silver X-ray films was among them.

The ceremony’s name comes from “pyxis,” meaning small box in Greek, reflecting how coins are presented for testing in Pyx boxes. Jurors randomly select these coins to ensure they meet strict standards.

SWEDISH Court’s SHOCKING Verdict: Koran Burning Deemed Hate Crime

04 February 2025 — A Swedish court has convicted an anti-Islam campaigner of a hate crime for burning the Koran in 2023. This ruling has ignited outrage both in Sweden and across Muslim nations. The case underscores the ongoing tension between free speech and religious sensitivities, as incidents of Koran burnings have risen recently.

In Australia, Allegra Spender is advocating to expand Labor’s hate crimes legislation following attacks on Jewish communities. Her proposal seeks to include serious vilification under the law, addressing concerns from her Sydney electorate of Wentworth.

Meanwhile, Crime Stoppers Victoria is focusing on nine wanted individuals from Casey in their latest effort to gather public tips for police assistance. This initiative encourages community involvement to help catch offenders effectively.

In New York, Albany County ranks fifth statewide for violent crime rates as of 2023, with 423.7 violent crimes per 100,000 people reported. This data highlights ongoing challenges in tackling crime rates across the state.

UN COURT DEMANDS Israel Halt Gaza Offensive

25 May 2024 — The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to stop its military actions in Rafah, Gaza. This decision increases pressure on Israel, which already faces international condemnation. Norway, Ireland, and Spain recently recognized a Palestinian state.

The Biden administration is caught between supporting Israel and opposing a major offensive in Rafah. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that Israel’s actions have been targeted and limited so far. However, he acknowledged the situation could change rapidly.

A State Department official confirmed that the operation has not yet reached the densest areas of Rafah. The U.S. continues to provide military and political support to Israel while urging caution against escalating the conflict further into densely populated regions of Gaza.

OUTRAGE Over ICC’S Arrest Warrants for Israeli and Hamas Officials

23 May 2024 — The International Criminal Court (ICC) faces backlash for considering arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas officials. Critics argue that rogue nations often escape scrutiny while the ICC targets Israel. “It’s spent over $2 billion. It’s been really ineffective,” said Orde Kittrie, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

Kittrie emphasized that Israel is not an ICC member state and polices its own alleged violations, making the court’s actions unjustified. “It’s obviously, totally politically driven,” he added, describing it as a political vendetta masquerading as legal proceedings.

Former Israeli leaders have called for dismantling the ICC, labeling it a “political tool.” The court’s prosecutor Karim Khan announced plans to request arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh.

UK Government BLASTS ICC Over Netanyahu Arrest Warrants

21 May 2024 — The British government has criticized the International Criminal Court (ICC) for seeking arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the move “deeply unhelpful” during a summit in Vienna, emphasizing that there is no moral equivalence between Israel’s self-defense and Hamas’s terrorism. Sunak’s stance aligns with U.S. President Biden, who labeled the ICC’s action as "outrageous.

Cabinet minister Michael Gove echoed these sentiments, accusing the ICC of double standards by targeting Netanyahu while ignoring Syria’s Bashar al-Assad. Gove argued that this narrative aims to delegitimize Israel by holding it to higher standards than other nations. The British government maintains that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over Israel since it is not a party to the Rome Statute.

However, Labour’s David Lammy supports the ICC’s decision, citing a legal obligation for signatories of the Rome Statute to comply with its orders. Lammy accused Conservatives of undermining international law by criticizing the court. This legalistic approach contrasts sharply with current government lawyers who argue that Palestine is not recognized as a state by many countries, including the UK, thus invalidating any jurisdiction over Israel by the ICC.

ICC WARRANTS for Netanyahu and Gallant Ignite Outrage

21 May 2024 — The International Criminal Court (ICC) chief prosecutor Karim Khan announced warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with three Hamas leaders. Netanyahu condemned the move, calling it a “travesty of justice” and a “vicious smear” aimed at preventing Israel from defending itself. He emphasized that Israel is committed to rescuing hostages and toppling the Hamas regime.

Netanyahu asserted that Israel adheres to international humanitarian law and does not target civilians in Gaza. He criticized the ICC for equating Israeli leaders with Hamas terrorists who use children as human shields. The accusation that Israel is causing starvation in Gaza was also refuted, with Netanyahu noting an increase in food entering Gaza since October 7.

He warned that the ICC warrants would embolden terrorists and play into Hamas’s strategy of violence against Israelis. The move by the ICC has been widely criticized as undermining Israel’s right to self-defense while ignoring the atrocities committed by Hamas.

UK Government’s CLIMATE STRATEGY Crumbles Under Court Scrutiny

03 May 2024 — A High Court judge has ruled the UK government’s climate strategy illegal, marking another significant setback. This decision is the second time in two years that the government has failed to meet its legal emissions targets. Justice Clive Sheldon highlighted that the plan lacked credible evidence to support its feasibility.

The scrutinized Carbon Budget Delivery Plan was intended to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. Yet, Justice Sheldon criticized it for being “vague and unquantified,” pointing out a serious lack of detail and clarity in the proposal.

Environmental organizations argued successfully that the government did not disclose vital details about how it would implement its strategy to Parliament. This omission of information hindered proper legislative oversight and played a pivotal role in the plan’s rejection by the court.

This ruling sends a clear message about accountability and transparency needed in governmental actions, especially concerning environmental policies critical for future generations.

JUDGEMENT HOUR: Assange’s Future Teeters as UK Judges Decide on US Extradition

26 March 2024 — Today, two esteemed judges from the British High Court will determine the destiny of Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks. The verdict, slated for 10:30 a.m. GMT (6:30 a.m. ET), will decide if Assange can contest his extradition to the U.S.

At age 52, Assange is up against espionage charges in America for disclosing classified military documents over ten years ago. Despite this, he has not yet faced trial in an American court due to his escape from the country.

This decision comes on the heels of last month’s two-day hearing which might have been Assange’s final bid to thwart his extradition. If denied a comprehensive appeal by the High Court, Assange could make one last plea before the European Court of Human Rights.

Supporters of Assange are apprehensive that an unfavorable ruling could expedite his extradition. His spouse Stella underscored this critical juncture with her message yesterday stating “This is it. DECISION TOMORROW.”

UN Court DEMANDS Israel Prevent GENOCIDE in Gaza: A Closer Look at the Controversial Ruling

26 January 2024 — The United Nations’ highest court has issued a mandate to Israel. The order is to prevent any acts of genocide in Gaza. However, the ruling did not call for a halt to the ongoing military operation that has wreaked havoc on the Palestinian region.

This verdict could place Israel under legal examination for an extended period. It originates from a genocide lawsuit filed by South Africa and delves into one of the globe’s most intricate conflicts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sees the court’s readiness to entertain genocide charges as a “mark of shame.” Despite facing global pressure and criticism for Israel’s wartime actions, Netanyahu remains committed to continuing with the war.

The conflict has led to over 26,000 Palestinian deaths and displaced nearly 85% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million. The Israeli government, established as a Jewish state after World War II following the Nazi slaughter of 6 million Jews, feels deeply wounded by these accusations.

Supreme Court: Last RESORT for CUNY Professors Suing Union Over Alleged Antisemitism

22 January 2024 — A collective of professors from the City University of New York (CUNY) is taking legal action against a teachers union, Professional Staff Congress/CUNY (PSC). They accuse PSC of fostering antisemitism. The professors see their ultimate hope in the Supreme Court’s intervention. Despite their resignation from the union due to its perceived anti-Jewish bias, state law obliges them to maintain an association with it.

The dispute ignited when PSC endorsed a “Resolution in Support of the Palestinian People” in 2021. This resolution was interpreted as antisemitic and anti-Israel by six professors, prompting their withdrawal from the union. Nonetheless, New York State law dictates that these same professors must be represented by this union in collective bargaining discussions.

Avraham Goldstein, a mathematics professor and one of the six dissenters, voiced his distress over being compelled to align with a union he believes issues antisemitic statements without his approval.

This legal battle follows on from a significant Supreme Court ruling in Janus v. AFSCME (2018). The court decided that public employees who are not members can’t be forced to pay fees to a union as it infringes upon their First Amendment rights.

South Africa SLAMS Israel with GENOCIDE Accusations at UN Court: The Truth Unveiled

11 January 2024 — South Africa has officially leveled accusations of genocide against Israel at the United Nations’ highest court. The case, which challenges the very essence of Israel’s national identity, demands an immediate cessation of Israeli military operations in Gaza. In response to these grave allegations, Israel, a nation born out of the Holocaust aftermath, has vehemently denied them.

In a surprising move that deviates from their usual approach of boycotting international tribunals or U.N. investigations — perceived as biased and unjust — Israeli leaders have decided to confront this matter head-on in court to defend their global reputation.

South African legal representatives argue that the recent conflict in Gaza is simply an extension of what they see as decades-long oppression by Israelis against Palestinians. They assert there is “a credible claim of genocidal acts,” grounded on evidence presented over the past 13 weeks.

With preliminary orders sought by South Africa to compel Israel to halt its military campaign in Gaza — where over 23,000 deaths have been reported by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry — they firmly believe that only a decree from this court can alleviate ongoing suffering.

UK Courts ISSUE Stark WARNING: The Dangers of AI in Legal Analysis

09 January 2024 — The UK’s Courts and Tribunals Judiciary recently sounded an alarm over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal research and analysis. They pointed out potential pitfalls such as misinformation, bias, and inaccuracies. Master of the Rolls Geoffrey Vos stressed that judges should continue to take personal responsibility for their decisions, while not completely rejecting AI.

This caution comes at a time when conversations are heating up about the future role of AI in law. Possibilities range from replacing lawyers to making case decisions. The judiciary’s careful approach is seen as forward-thinking for a profession usually slow to embrace technology. Ryan Abbott, a law professor at the University of Surrey, highlighted that there is currently an intense debate about how to regulate AI.

Legal experts have applauded this move by the judiciary as it addresses recent advancements in AI technology head-on. England and Wales are now among leading courts worldwide tackling this issue proactively. Half a decade ago, the European Commission for Efficiency of Justice released an ethical charter on using AI in court systems which focused on principles like accountability and risk management.

UK Judges DISMISS Security Threats, HAND Citizenship to Isis Propagandist

01 January 2024 — British judges have recently overlooked concerns raised by the Home Office regarding a Sudanese migrant, referred to as “S3”. This individual entered the UK illegally in 2005 and again in 2018. Despite having his British passport revoked due to active dissemination of ISIS propaganda, he has now been granted UK citizenship and permanent anonymity.

S3’s legal representation argued that his deportation would infringe upon his human rights. They cited potential detention and torture risks in Sudan as reasons for him to remain in the UK. This argument swayed the justices, even though S3 has made multiple trips back to Sudan without facing any form of persecution. During one such visit in December 2016, he allegedly used social media platforms to spread ISIS propaganda.

The government presented a case suggesting that S3 is a threat to national security. MI5 claimed that he showed unwavering commitment towards extremist ideologies propagated by ISIS and could potentially influence others towards radicalization. However, his lawyers successfully invoked provisions from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) preventing his deportation.

Prominent Brexiteers like Nigel Farage believe that Rishi Sunak’s government must withdraw from ECHR for regaining control over Britain’s borders. The ECHR has been previously used as a shield against deportation for at least 53 convicted terrorists.