The International Criminal Court (ICC) has removed its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, following allegations of serious misconduct. On Friday, a significant majority of the court’s 125 member states voted to dismiss Khan, a British barrister, after an internal investigation found he had engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a junior ICC lawyer.

The decision comes after diplomats overseeing the executive bureau of the ICC’s governing body recommended Khan’s removal last month. The investigation concluded that Khan’s conduct violated the court’s professional standards, prompting calls for his immediate dismissal.

Khan, 56, has denied any wrongdoing and announced his intention to contest the decision. He rejected the findings as unfounded and indicated plans to challenge the vote taken by the member states.

The move to remove Khan takes place amid heightened tensions surrounding the ICC’s role on the global stage. Recently, the United States declared it would intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at curbing the court’s influence, citing concerns that the ICC poses a threat to American sovereignty. This political backdrop has amplified scrutiny of the court’s leadership.

The ICC, based in The Hague, is an international tribunal tasked with prosecuting individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and aggression. Khan was appointed to lead the office of the prosecutor in 2021, succeeding Fatou Bensouda. His tenure has been marked by efforts to pursue high-profile cases and expand the court’s outreach.

The dismissal of a sitting prosecutor is an unprecedented event for the ICC, which has historically emphasized accountability and integrity within its ranks. Member states underscored their commitment to upholding ethical standards while navigating the political challenges facing the institution.

No immediate successor to Khan has been named, and the court’s governing body is expected to convene in the coming weeks to determine the next steps for appointing a new chief prosecutor. Meanwhile, the ICC faces ongoing operational and diplomatic challenges as it continues its mandates amid international criticism and political pressures.