The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed it was the target of a complex cyberattack last week, which it described as both “targeted and sophisticated.”
In a statement released Monday, June 30, the tribunal said its internal monitoring systems quickly identified and contained the breach. The ICC added that a comprehensive investigation is underway to assess the impact and ensure further safeguards are in place.
This is the second major cyberattack to hit the court in recent years. A similar breach in 2023 aimed at espionage was previously disclosed, raising concerns over persistent threats aimed at undermining the court’s integrity and mission.
That earlier incident occurred during a tense period, with criminal charges filed against ICC officials and judges, and even an alleged attempt by a foreign intelligence operative to gain access by posing as an intern.
In response, the ICC has been strengthening its cybersecurity framework, accelerating reforms to improve digital resilience. The court also warned of potential disinformation campaigns that could follow the latest breach, likely aimed at discrediting its operations and tarnishing the image of its officials.
“The support of member states and the public is crucial to maintaining the Court’s role in delivering justice and accountability,” the statement said.
Philippine ICC Reentry Debates Resurface
While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has yet to issue a clear stance on the country’s possible return to the ICC, Malacañang says he is carefully considering public opinion.
A recent OCTA Research poll conducted in April showed that 57% of Filipinos support rejoining the court, with 37% opposed and 6% undecided. This renewed interest comes amid the ICC’s ongoing case against former President Rodrigo Duterte over drug war-related deaths.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro noted that while the President hasn’t spoken publicly about the matter, public sentiment is being closely monitored.
The Philippines ratified the Rome Statute in 2011 but withdrew in 2018, following the ICC’s announcement of a preliminary examination into Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, which reportedly resulted in over 6,000 deaths. Duterte was arrested under an ICC warrant on March 11 and is currently in detention awaiting trial in The Hague.
UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan recently urged the Philippines to reconsider its withdrawal and engage in discussions to rejoin the court.
Duterte’s Defense Seeks Interim Release
Rodrigo Duterte’s legal team, led by attorney Nicholas Kaufman, has filed a petition for interim release. Kaufman said a decision is expected within July, as they await the court’s response to their request to reply to the prosecution’s opposition.
Kaufman insists that Duterte poses no flight risk and should not be held in custody while awaiting trial. The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) and the Office of Public Counsel for Victims have both opposed the release. Kaufman maintains that initial conversations with the OTP suggested there would be no objection—though the OTP clarified that the discussions referenced a different jurisdiction.
He also addressed the court’s rejection of his motion to disqualify two judges, stating he continues to have full confidence in the court’s impartiality and integrity.
Legislative Push Against Duterte’s Release
In the Philippines, ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Rep. Renee Louise Co filed House Bill No. 9, opposing any interim release of Duterte. The bill urges the House of Representatives to stand with victims of human rights violations and support continued accountability.
The bill cites the ICC pre-trial chamber’s assessment that there is reasonable evidence implicating Duterte as an indirect co-perpetrator in crimes against humanity between 2011 and 2019.
Lawmakers also criticized misinformation efforts by Duterte’s allies, who have portrayed his arrest as an illegal abduction. They stressed the need to defend the integrity of the judicial process and honor the victims’ pursuit of justice.
Public Reaction and Legal Tensions
Following Duterte’s arrest, online platforms linked to the ICC and its judges have faced a wave of harassment from Duterte supporters. Some victims’ families have since filed complaints over these threats with the National Bureau of Investigation.
In response, attorney Kristina Conti, representing some of the victims, criticized the defense’s narrative, pointing out that the victims have consistently respected the legal process. She called on Duterte’s supporters to show similar regard for the judicial system and cease online attacks.
