Bill

HRES 9

Reaffirming that the United States is not a party to the Rome Statute and does not recognize the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court.

119th Congress Introduced by Andy Biggs

A non-binding House resolution reaffirms US non-participation in the Rome Statute, condemns ICC arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant, and vows unwavering support for Israel.

Submitted in House

WeVote Research Nonpartisan

Bill Summary · HRES 9

Summary of HRES 9 (House Resolution)

Overview

HRES 9 is a non-binding House resolution submitted on January 3, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Its primary purpose is to reaffirm U.S. policy regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC) and to express strong support for Israel. As a resolution, it does not create or change law but signals Congressional stance and messaging.

Purpose and Intent

Reaffirm that the United States is not a party to the Rome Statute governing the ICC and does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction.
Condemn the ICC’s issuance of arrest warrant applications for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant.
Reiterate unwavering U.S. support for the State of Israel and Israel’s right to defend itself and its leaders from what the measure characterizes as unwarranted international legal actions.

Key Provisions

1) Affirm US non-participation in the Rome Statute and non-recognition of ICC jurisdiction.
2) Condemnation of the ICC’s arrest warrant applications against Netanyahu and Gallant.
3) Reaffirmation of U.S. support for Israel and its right to defend itself and its leaders from unwarranted international legal actions.

Status and Procedural Timeline

Introduced: January 3, 2025
Legislative actions: Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on the same date

Potential Impact and Affected Parties

Affected/targeted audiences: U.S. policymakers and government officials, supporters and detractors of ICC actions, and U.S. allies concerned with ICC jurisdiction and Israel’s security.
Practical effect: As a non-binding resolution, it expresses a policy stance and political message rather than creating enforceable obligations. It could influence congressional rhetoric, inform future policy discussions, and shape diplomatic posture toward the ICC and Israel-related international actions.
International diplomacy: Signals disapproval of ICC proceedings related to Israeli leaders and reinforces support for Israel in international discourse.

Context to Consider

The Rome Statute established the ICC; the United States is not a party to it. This resolution emphasizes that stance and aligns with a broader U.S. position often associated with opposition to ICC jurisdiction over U.S. or allied leaders.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.