What is the primary focus of the International Criminal Court regarding war crimes?

The primary focus of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is indeed the prosecution of individuals for humanitarian violations, particularly war crimes. The ICC was established to ensure accountability for severe crimes that deeply impact human rights and international peace and security. War crimes, which include serious breaches of the laws and customs of war, are one of the key areas of jurisdiction for the ICC.

The court aims to hold individuals, rather than states, accountable for atrocities such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. This individual accountability is critical for justice, as it helps to deter further violations and provides a means of redress for victims.

In contrast to this focus, enforcement of national laws is outside the ICC's mandate, which operates on an international level. The resolution of international disputes typically falls under the purview of different international bodies, such as the International Court of Justice. Mediation between states focuses on diplomatic solutions to conflicts rather than prosecutorial actions related to individual criminal responsibility. Thus, the ICC's unique role as a prosecuting body for individuals accused of serious international crimes distinguishes it from these other options.