### ICC Chief Prosecutor Faces External Investigation Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has launched an external investigation into sexual misconduct accusations against its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan. While Khan denies the allegations, he has committed to cooperating with the investigation and will continue his duties throughout the process.

Khan initially requested an investigation by the ICC's watchdog, the Independent Oversight Mechanism (IOM), but the court’s governing body decided on Monday to pursue an external investigation instead. Media reports revealed a document detailing accusations against Khan that include unwanted sexual touching and other forms of abuse.

In response to the announcement, Khan stated, “I welcome the opportunity to engage in this process,” and assured that he would continue performing his role as prosecutor. He also mentioned that matters pertaining to the investigation would be handled by deputy prosecutors who do not report to him to ensure unbiased handling.

The Guardian newspaper reported that a female lawyer, who accused Khan of unwanted sexual advances, expressed doubts about the competence of the IOM. Furthermore, it was reported that Khan allegedly tried to persuade the woman to deny her claims, contrary to advice avoiding one-on-one contact. Khan has denied these allegations.

Paivi Kaukoranta, president of the body overseeing the court, had previously stated that while the IOM was in touch with the alleged victim, it was not equipped to carry out an investigation at that time. On Monday, she defended the IOM’s capability but acknowledged the "particular circumstances" necessitating an external probe to ensure an independent and fair process.

This investigation comes amid a period of intense scrutiny for both Khan and the ICC, following his controversial request for arrest warrants related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In May, Khan asserted that there were reasonable grounds to believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former defence minister Yoav Gallant, along with Hamas leaders Yahiya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh, were accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity since the attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October. All three Hamas leaders have since been killed by Israel.

In an earlier statement, Khan noted this was a challenging time with various attacks and threats against him and the ICC. He juxtaposed the sexual misconduct allegations with efforts undermining his position but pointed out that these allegations precede his request for the Gaza-related arrest warrants.

Currently, a panel of three ICC judges is reviewing Khan’s requests for arrest warrants. In a conversation with BBC, Khan emphasized the necessity for the court to hold all nations to the same standards, despite the political ramifications these actions might have, particularly among Joe Biden's Democratic Party.