Trump claims victory as court rejects investigating US forces

The International Criminal Court’s unanimous rejection of a request to investigate US forces for possible war crimes in Afghanistan is a “major international victory”, US President Donald Trump said on Friday.

He, however, warned the court against trying to prosecute Israelis or Americans following a complaint by Palestinians, which have called for an ICC investigation of Israel.

“This is a major international victory, not only for these patriots, but for the rule of law,” Trump said in a statement. “We welcome this decision and reiterate our position that the United States holds American citizens to the highest legal and ethical standards.”