Karim Khan, the International Criminal Court's chief prosecutor, was suspended effective immediately by Britain's Bar Standards Board on June 19, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The move follows Khan's earlier suspension on June 8 by the ICC's governing body amid allegations of sexual misconduct [1, 2, 4].

Khan, 56, denies all allegations of sexual misconduct. His legal representatives at Carter-Ruck stated, "As he has consistently made clear, Mr Khan unequivocally denies all allegations of impropriety. He maintains that he has acted at all times fully in accordance with his professional obligations" [3]. They also confirmed Khan's team is challenging both the ICC Bureau decision and the Bar Standards Board suspension to protect his rights and ensure due process [1, 2, 3, 4].

The allegations first surfaced in 2024 when a female aide accused Khan of non-consensual and coercive sexual behavior [1, 2, 3, 4]. An 18-month external investigation by the United Nations concluded there was a factual basis for a non-consensual sexual relationship involving Khan [1, 2, 4]. However, a three-judge panel at the ICC rejected the findings of the UN report and found insufficient evidence of misconduct [3, 4].

Khan went on voluntary leave starting May 2025, with his deputies assuming his duties at the ICC [1, 2, 4]. The ICC's 125 member states are scheduled to vote on Khan’s fate at a special session on July 24, 2026 [1, 2].

The Bar Standards Board said the interim suspension will be reviewed by an Interim Suspension Panel at a hearing within four weeks of the suspension [4]. Khan’s case draws attention amid broader tensions surrounding the ICC, which has faced sanctions from the US, a non-member, over investigations into Israeli officials and US personnel [1, 2, 4]. Some supporters argue Khan is a political target, linked to ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials over the Gaza conflict [1, 2]. ICC officials maintain the suspension is disciplinary, not politically motivated [3, 4].

The ICC Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties had determined Khan committed serious misconduct, yet the legal disputes over the evidence and motivation continue [3, 4]. Khan and his legal team continue to contest all allegations and decisions against him [1, 2, 3, 4].

The next major step is the July 24 vote by the ICC's member states, which will decide Khan's future with the court [1, 2].