The Guardian's coverage of Marco Rubio's claim that the International Criminal Court (ICC) threatens U.S. sovereignty highlights the deeper issue of imperial exemption rather than genuine sovereignty. The U.S. has long opposed ICC jurisdiction that could implicate American or allied personnel, reacting strongly against Palestinian efforts to document crimes under occupation. The article critiques the liberal institutionalism of the response, noting a lack of representation for affected parties. It underscores that U.S. sanctions targeting Palestinian organizations and ICC officials are a means to maintain impunity. Oppressed nations seek accountability, using available legal systems to challenge the dominance of imperial powers and protect their sovereignty against external coercion.