Marco Rubio criticizes International Criminal Court and international law in Washington speech

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the International Criminal Court and international law during a speech to the Federalist Society in Washington on November 14, 2026. Marco Rubio argued against international laws that restrict United States actions and advocated for a muscular foreign policy. This speech marked the first prepared remarks from the Secretary of State following the defeat of the Republican Party in the midterm elections on November 3, 2026.

Criticism of international institutions

Marco Rubio accused the International Criminal Court of attempting to enforce rules that the United States does not recognize. During his remarks, Marco Rubio stated that the International Criminal Court and its allies have appointed themselves judge, jury, and executioner of the international order. He characterized international law as a non-neutral tool used by global elites to advance their own interests.

The International Criminal Court was founded in 2002 and is based in The Hague to prosecute serious crimes. While the United States has signed the Rome Statute, the country has not ratified the treaty. The United States previously announced new sanctions against the International Criminal Court in October 2026, which are scheduled to take effect in April.

Defense of US foreign policy

Marco Rubio defended the actions of the Trump administration, including the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He also defended military strikes on boats located in the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific. Regarding regional conflicts, Marco Rubio defended US-Israeli military operations against Iran. He stated that the goal of the US-Israeli war against Iran is to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The Secretary of State also drew a distinction between different regional threats. Marco Rubio contrasted the expansionist mentality of Iran with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He stated that Kim Jong Un is not an expansionist seeking to invade Japan or China.

Political context and implications

The speech in Washington comes at a significant political juncture for the administration. The remarks follow the midterm elections on November 3, 2026, where the Republican Party faced defeat. Marco Rubio's position emphasizes a commitment to a robust foreign policy that prioritizes United States interests over the mandates of international legal bodies.

The tension between the United States and international legal institutions remains a central theme in current diplomatic relations. While the International Criminal Court seeks to maintain global legal standards, the United States continues to maintain a policy of non-recognition regarding certain aspects of the court's authority.

Glossary

• International Criminal Court — The International Criminal Court was founded in 2002 and is based in The Hague to prosecute serious crimes.
• The Hague — The Hague is a location that houses the International Criminal Court. It is also the location of the Peace Palace.
• Rome Statute — The Rome Statute is a treaty that the United States has signed but not ratified. It governs the International Criminal Court.