U.S. position on ICC shows signs of wavering

To the editor:

In the midst of the most extensive manhunt in history, the Bush administration has pulled out of the International Criminal Court.

The ICC, which will prosecute war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity, could be a potent weapon in the war on terrorism. Even without the United States' participation, it's a major step toward ensuring that humanity's most egregious criminals will be brought to justice.

In his State of the Union Address, President Bush said that "America will lead by defending liberty and justice because they are right and true and unchanging for all people everywhere." But by unsigning the treaty which brought the ICC into existence, the president has signaled that his commitment to universal justice is wavering.

For a successful and just war on terrorism, the United States must support the International Criminal Court.

JEANNE SHARP WELLS

Cape Girardeau