In a dramatic move that underscores growing frustration, Republican Senator Jim Risch has threatened to block all action on nominees and legislation in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee unless progress is made to pass sanctions against the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC has recently faced bipartisan criticism for indicting top leaders of both Israel and Hamas.

The threat, first reported by Punchbowl News, comes as Senator Risch expresses disappointment over the inability to reach a deal on ICC sanctions, particularly in light of the House passing a similar bill last week with the support of 42 Democrats. Risch's spokesperson, Suzanne Wrasse, noted that despite offers to negotiate, Democrats have not responded substantively, leading to a lack of progress.

Republicans believe that the fastest way to pass a sanctions bill would be for the Senate to adopt the one already passed by the House, especially as the number of legislative days before the August recess is dwindling. However, Democratic Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, criticized the House measure as a "divisive partisan bill" and is seeking a bipartisan solution with Republicans.

Senator Cardin met with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the issue. Although a clear resolution was not reached, Cardin expressed his commitment to working with Risch and other Republicans to find a bipartisan solution that would also garner the support of President Joe Biden. He emphasized the importance of defending Israel from what he described as a "flawed and biased prosecution," calling for united support for the US-Israel relationship.

Both Cardin and Risch acknowledge their ability to work well together, despite their differing views on the House bill. Risch expressed his anticipation for the ICC legislation to be on the agenda of the committee's next meeting.

The standoff over ICC sanctions reveals the deep divisions and challenges faced by lawmakers as they navigate complicated international legal issues. The outcome of this debate will not only impact the relationship between the United States and the ICC but also the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.