Nigeria, Feb. 7 -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) has described President Donald Trump's sanction on its staff as an attempt to harm its independence and impartiality.

In a statement issued on Friday, the court said it would continue to prioritise its judicial function despite the sanction against its staff.

On Thursday, President Trump slapped sanctions on the ICC, accusing the body of illegally targeting the United States and Israel.

The US President signed an executive order against the international court that restricts the financial and visa rights of its staff.

The sanction also affects anyone assisting the ICC with its investigation of the US or its allies.

The US executive order stated The Hague-based court had "abuse...