Marco Rubio Attacks ICC and Global Elites in Keynote Speech

Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a keynote address on November 14, 2026, at the Federalist Society's National Lawyers Convention in Washington, D.C., where he sharply criticized the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the United Nations. Speaking at the Barbara K. Olson Memorial Lecture, Rubio characterized the ICC as a "fake and illegitimate" and "unelected world tribunal" that lacks authority over sovereign states. He accused a "global elite" of weaponizing international law as an instrument to advance their own interests under the pretense of universal principles.

Rubio defended the Trump administration's "America First" foreign policy and the decision to impose sanctions on the ICC, which are set to take effect in April. He justified these measures by claiming the court intends to prosecute U.S. officials and service members. He specifically dismissed allegations that the U.S. violated international law during the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and military strikes against cartel boats in the Caribbean. Rubio further suggested the U.S. would respond with force if the ICC attempted to enforce rulings against Americans.

Beyond legal disputes, Rubio addressed the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran as a necessary effort to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. In his first major public address following significant Republican losses in the midterm elections, he urged conservatives to maintain a long-term perspective, stating that "Great things that last are built in decades, not election cycles." While he denied rumors of his resignation, his performance sparked speculation regarding a potential 2028 presidential bid.