The Hague, March 6 (RHC)-- Judges at the International Criminal Court have authorized an investigation into allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by Taliban, Afghan and U.S. troops in Afghanistan.

The ruling at The Hague reverses a decision by the ICC last year not to open an inquiry.  At the time, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo threatened to cut off visas to ICC staff investigating abuses committed by U.S. troops.

The new ruling came after the U.S. carried out an airstrike on Taliban fighters in Helmand province — just days after the U.S. signed a deal with the Taliban aimed at ending its 18-year war in Afghanistan.  The Taliban has called for deescalation.