Human rights organizations and international lawmakers criticized the decision, saying it will further isolate the superpower.
In December 2000, President Clinton signed the treaty establishing the court, but never submitted it to the Senate for ratification.
Marc Grossman, under secretary for political affairs, said in a speech that participation in the court would threaten U.S. sovereignty.
"We believe that states, not international institutions, are primarily responsible for ensuring justice in the international system," said Grossman.
"The international court claims the authority to detain and try American citizens, even though our democratically elected representatives have not agreed to be bound by the treaty."
Grossman said President Bush decided to formally announce the country's decision to avoid creating expectations of U.S. involvement in the future.
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/court_05-06-02.html