A panel of judges found no evidence of misconduct against ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, according to reports from Middle East Eye.
Judges at the International Criminal Court have cleared Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan of all wrongdoing related to sexual misconduct allegations, as reported by Middle East Eye. The panel submitted a confidential report to the court's oversight body on March 9, concluding that the evidence did not establish any misconduct.
The report, reviewed by diplomatic sources, stated that the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Service's findings failed to prove a breach of duty under the relevant framework. This investigation was initiated in November 2024 after a member of Khan's office accused him of sexual misconduct.
Background of the Allegations
In August of the previous year, a second woman alleged that Khan abused his power while she worked for him, describing his behavior as a 'constant onslaught' of advances to The Guardian. Khan has consistently denied these allegations and stepped down from his duties in May to allow for an impartial inquiry.
During Khan's absence, his deputy prosecutors have managed his office. The Assembly of States Parties met on Monday to discuss the report, and under court rules, they have 30 days to assess the findings before Khan has 30 days to respond.
If the bureau determines no misconduct occurred, the investigation will be closed. Meanwhile, Khan's office continues its work, including pursuing arrest warrants for Israeli officials over alleged war crimes in Gaza and for Russian leaders regarding the deportation of Ukrainian children.
Khan's Ongoing Role
Khan, a British lawyer, has been leading high-profile investigations at the ICC, such as those into the Gaza conflict and Russia's actions in Ukraine. The allegations emerged amid these cases, but the clearance report focuses solely on the misconduct claims without linking them to his professional duties.
