The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Monday suspended its chief prosecutor Karim Khan following allegations of sexual misconduct. The unprecedented move places Khan’s future in the hands of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), which will convene a special session to determine whether he remains in office.

The allegations, first reported in 2024 to the ICC’s independent watchdog, were investigated by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS). The inquiry, which lasted over a year, produced evidence suggesting non-consensual sexual contact involving a female aide. Khan, however, has firmly denied the claims, describing the suspension as “unlawful and procedurally unfair.” A judicial panel previously reviewed the findings but found they were not conclusive enough to establish misconduct beyond reasonable doubt.

Despite this, the ICC Bureau referred the matter to the ASP, the body representing 125 member states, for final determination. The ASP will convene a special session to decide Khan’s fate, with a majority vote required for removal. In the meantime, deputy prosecutors will oversee the Office of the Prosecutor.

The suspension carries significant implications for the ICC’s credibility. Khan has led high-profile investigations, including cases against the leaders of Israel, Hamas and Russia. His removal, even temporarily, places the court under intense global scrutiny.