India, Feb. 7 -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday strongly condemned the sanctions imposed by US President Donald Trump, urging its member states to stand united in defence of the court's independence.

The ICC described the United States sanctions as a "direct attempt to undermine its impartial and judicial working".

"The Court stands firmly by its personnel and pledges to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world," the court said in a statement.

"We call on our 125 States Parties, civil society, and all nations of the world to stand united for justice and fundamental human rights," it said.

Earlier in the day, the White House announced the executive order on Thu...