Karim Ahmad Khan

Karim Ahmad Khan, born on March 30, 1970, is a distinguished British barrister, judge, and jurist, currently serving as the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since 2021. With a specialization in international criminal law and human rights law, Khan has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in addressing issues of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

On May 20, 2024, Khan made headlines by announcing the ICC's decision to seek arrest warrants for several high-profile figures, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh. This bold move underscored his commitment to holding individuals accountable for alleged atrocities.

In November 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu, Gallant, and Deif, further amplifying the international legal discourse surrounding these allegations. Additionally, a warrant was requested for Myanmar military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing during the same month, showcasing Khan's focus on global human rights violations.

However, Khan's tenure has not been without controversy. In May 2025, he temporarily stepped down as chief prosecutor amid allegations of sexual misconduct. This development came shortly after the United States Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on him, following actions taken by former President Donald Trump against ICC officials for their pursuit of justice in the cases involving Netanyahu and Gallant.