Legal AF Podcast Summary: "War Crimes Prosecutor Makes His Move Against Trump"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Legal AF by MeidasTouch
• Host/Author: MeidasTouch Network
• Description: Hosted by Ben Meiselas, Michael Popok, and Karen Friedman Agnifilo, Legal AF delves into the most compelling developments at the intersection of law and politics each week.
• Episode: War Crimes Prosecutor Makes His Move Against Trump
• Release Date: May 8, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Legal AF, host Michael Popok examines a significant legal battle involving Eric Iverson, an American war crimes prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), and former President Donald Trump. The discussion centers on Iverson's federal lawsuit against Trump and his administration, highlighting the broader implications for the rule of law and America's relationship with international legal institutions.

Eric Iverson's Lawsuit Against Trump

Timestamp: [01:28]

Michael Popok introduces Eric Iverson, an Army veteran specializing in prosecuting war crimes in Darfur under the ICC's jurisdiction. Iverson has filed a federal lawsuit against Donald Trump and key members of his administration, including Bondi, Marco Rubio, and Scott Bessant. The lawsuit contends that executive orders issued in February 2025 have unfairly targeted ICC affiliates, effectively preventing Iverson from performing his duties.

Notable Quote:

"I can't do my job and it violates my First Amendment right." — Eric Iverson [01:28]

Impact on International Criminal Court's American Affiliates

Timestamp: [04:06]

Popok elaborates on the scope of the executive orders, which place Iverson and other ICC-affiliated Americans on a Treasury block list. This action not only freezes their assets but also restricts their ability to travel and work with the ICC. Iverson's lawsuit seeks a declaration from a federal judge that these measures infringe upon his First Amendment rights, thereby restoring his capacity to prosecute war crimes.

Notable Quote:

"He can't do his job and it violates his First Amendment right." — Michael Popok on behalf of Iverson [01:28]

Popok emphasizes that Iverson is not alone; dozens of Americans associated with the ICC are similarly affected. This includes high-profile individuals like George Clooney, whose spouse works for the ICC, illustrating the broad reach of the administration's sanctions.

Role of Organizations Fighting Back

Timestamp: [07:32]

Following a brief advertisement break, Popok discusses the emergence of various public interest groups and law firms, such as Human Rights First and Democracy Forward. These organizations, including Abby Lowell’s new law firm dedicated to defending those targeted by the Trump administration, are actively supporting Iverson's lawsuit and similar cases. Popok highlights the pivotal role these groups play in countering what he describes as Trump's "bully pulpit" tactics against perceived enemies.

Notable Quote:

"We've got a lot of groups there that are bringing these kinds of lawsuits, and they have to do it." — Michael Popok [07:32]

Federal Courts’ Response

Timestamp: [07:54]

Popok outlines the ongoing legal battle between the Trump administration and federal courts. He notes a trend where federal courts are consistently ruling against Trump in various cases, with a "losing record" that includes decisions from the United States Supreme Court. This judicial pushback is crucial in maintaining checks and balances against executive overreach.

Notable Quote:

"Donald Trump is losing 90% of the cases that have been filed against him and 90% or more of the injunctions that have been filed against him." — Michael Popok [07:54]

Importance of Upholding Rule of Law

Timestamp: [09:15]

The discussion underscores the fundamental importance of upholding the rule of law, both domestically and internationally. Popok argues that allowing prosecutors like Iverson to continue their work at the ICC is essential for holding perpetrators of genocide and war crimes accountable, regardless of political leadership within the United States. He advocates for supporting international judicial efforts even if the U.S. is not a direct participant in the ICC.

Notable Quote:

"We should allow Eric Iverson to go after bad guys in Darfur for war crimes and genocide." — Michael Popok [10:45]

Conclusion

Michael Popok concludes the episode by reinforcing the need for vigilance in defending democratic institutions and the rule of law against attempts to undermine them. He calls on listeners to support the Legal AF channel and stay informed about ongoing legal battles that shape the intersection of law and politics.

Notable Quote:

"Until my next reporting, you know where to go Legal AF the YouTube channel Legal AF MTN, Legal AF the podcast here on the Midas Touch Network and of course Legal AF the substack for all the information like this particular filing that you'll only find here on all things Legal AF." — Michael Popok [11:15]

Key Takeaways

• Legal Challenge: Eric Iverson’s lawsuit challenges the Trump administration’s executive orders targeting ICC affiliates, arguing a violation of First Amendment rights.

• Broader Impact: The sanctions affect multiple American professionals connected to the ICC, limiting their ability to prosecute international war crimes.

• Organizational Support: New and existing public interest groups are actively supporting legal actions against the administration’s policies.

• Judicial Support: Federal courts have largely sided against Trump in related legal disputes, indicating judicial resistance to executive overreach.

• Rule of Law: Upholding international judicial cooperation is crucial for global accountability, irrespective of U.S. administrative positions.

Conclusion

This episode of Legal AF provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal struggles faced by American affiliates of the International Criminal Court in the wake of executive actions by the Trump administration. By highlighting Eric Iverson's lawsuit and the broader implications for international law and democratic principles, the podcast underscores the ongoing battle to maintain the rule of law in both national and international arenas.

For more updates and in-depth legal analysis, subscribe to the Legal AF YouTube channel, podcast, and Substack through the MeidasTouch Network.