Summary United States said Wednesday it strongly opposes a request from Palestinian Authority to join ICC.
WASHINGTON (AFP) - The United States said Wednesday it "strongly opposes" a request from the Palestinian Authority to join the International Criminal Court, fearing this will further delay peace talks with Israel.
"It would be counterproductive and would do nothing to further the aspirations of the Palestinian people for a sovereign and independent state," the State Department said.
Earlier, Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas had signed requests for his authority to join 20 international conventions, including that governing the world s top criminal court, a step on the road to statehood.
Washington supports the Palestinians quest for a state, but sides with its ally Israel insisting that they not take unilateral steps in this direction before reaching a peace deal with their neighbor.
"It will badly damage the atmosphere with the very people with whom they ultimately need to make peace," the US statement said.
"As we ve said before, the United States continues to strongly oppose actions -- by both parties -- that undermine trust and create doubts about their commitment to a negotiated peace.
"Our position has not changed. Such actions only push the parties further apart."
The Palestinians hope ICC membership will pave the way for war crimes prosecutions against Israeli officials for their actions in the occupied territories.
The Hague-based court prosecutes individuals accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. Israel has warned that joining the court could also expose Palestinians to prosecution.
