ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Taliban Leaders Over Women's Rights Violations

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants on July 9, 2025, for two prominent Taliban leaders, Hibatullah Akhundzada, the supreme leader, and Abdul Hakim Haqqani, the head of Afghanistan's Supreme Court. These warrants arise from charges of systematic persecution of women and girls following the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan nearly four years ago. The ICC's prosecution office highlighted that these actions represent a significant acknowledgment of the rights of Afghan women and girls, as well as other marginalized groups, including individuals whose gender identity or political views diverge from Taliban ideology.

The charges detail a range of human rights violations, including the prohibition of women's education and other fundamental freedoms. The Taliban's governance has been characterized by severe restrictions on women's rights, which have escalated since they regained power in August 2021. According to the ICC, Taliban decrees have significantly deprived women and girls of their rights to education, privacy, and family life, while also curtailing freedoms of movement, expression, and religion.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's chief spokesman, dismissed the ICC’s authority, claiming the warrants reflect an affront to Islam and Sharia law. Mujahid described the court's decision as one of 'open hostility and hatred' toward Islamic beliefs.

The ICC's decision follows a recent United Nations resolution demanding the Taliban reverse their oppressive policies against women and girls. This resolution was passed amid objections from the United States, underscoring the international community's growing concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Afghanistan.

Karim Khan, the ICC's chief prosecutor, had initially sought the warrants in January 2025, emphasizing the need for accountability for the ongoing persecution of Afghan women and the LGBTQI+ community. He criticized the domestic investigation capabilities in Afghanistan, stating that the Taliban's rule eliminated the possibility of genuine investigations into human rights abuses.

Human Rights Watch has welcomed the ICC’s decision, calling for the international community to act on these warrants. Liz Evenson, the organization’s international justice director, noted that senior Taliban leaders are now formally sought for their alleged crimes against women, girls, and those who do not conform to traditional gender roles.

The ICC's investigation into Afghanistan was initially initiated in 2020 under Khan's predecessor, Fatou Bensouda, focusing on offenses committed by various factions, including the Taliban and Afghan government forces. However, Khan has since narrowed the focus to crimes committed by the Taliban and affiliated groups, deprioritizing actions by U.S. forces.

This development occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of Khan himself, as he faces an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct, which he has categorically denied. Khan's temporary suspension highlights the complex dynamics within the ICC as it seeks to address grave injustices while maintaining its credibility and authority.

With the issuance of these arrest warrants, the ICC signals its commitment to holding accountable those responsible for human rights violations, reinforcing the urgent need for global advocacy on behalf of the oppressed in Afghanistan. The international community now faces the challenge of enforcing these warrants against individuals who have evaded justice under the Taliban regime.