UK Shadow Cabinet Minister Voices Concern over Lack of Application of International Law in Gaza
John McDonnell, the British Labour Party’s Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, has expressed deep concern over the continued violation of international law in the Gaza Strip. In a
press statement
issued on Thursday, 2nd September 2021,, McDonnell expressed his disappointment at the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants, which has resulted in a significant loss of civilian lives. He urged both parties to take immediate steps towards
de-escalating the situation,
and adhering to their obligations under international law.
McDonnell stated that “The international community cannot stand by while the human rights of innocent people in Gaza continue to be violated on an almost daily basis.” He called for an end to the
disproportionate use of force,
which, he said, had resulted in the death and injury of numerous civilians. He also expressed concern over the ongoing blockade of Gaza, which has led to a severe shortage of basic necessities such as food, water, and medicine.
The Labour Party Shadow Chancellor went on to criticise the
international community’s
lack of action in the face of these violations. He urged international-news/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>world
leaders to take a more robust stance towards ensuring that international law is upheld in the region. McDonnell’s statement came amidst renewed calls for an independent investigation into the conflict, which have been backed by various human rights organisations and world leaders.
I. Introduction
Background on the Conflict between Israel and Palestine in Gaza
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a long-standing dispute over land and self-determination, has been a significant source of instability in the Middle East since the late 19th century. The issue gained prominence after the Balfour Declaration of 1917, which promised a “Jewish national home” in Palestine, a region inhabited mainly by Arabs. The creation of the State of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. Over the following decades, various conflicts, wars, and peace processes have unfolded between Israelis and Palestinians, with tensions often escalating in the Gaza Strip.
Historical context
The first major conflict between Israelis and Palestinians occurred in 1948, following the establishment of the State of Israel. During this period, approximately 700,000 Palestinians were displaced from their homes and became refugees. The 1967 Six-Day War resulted in Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Since then, several attempts have been made to resolve the conflict through peace processes, such as the Camp David Summit in 2000 and the Annapolis Conference in 2007. However, these efforts have not led to a lasting peace agreement.
Recent escalation of violence
In recent years, the situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly. The blockade of Gaza, which began in 2007 following Hamas’ takeover of the territory, has led to a humanitarian crisis. The situation came to a head in May 2021, when clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces during the Jerusalem Day celebrations in East Jerusalem escalated into full-scale conflict. The violence continued, leading to over 250 deaths and thousands of injuries among Palestinians. Rockets were launched from Gaza into Israel, prompting Israeli air strikes on targets in the territory.
Importance of international law in resolving the conflict
Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict requires a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement. International law plays a crucial role in addressing the core issues, including territorial disputes, refugee rights, and humanitarian concerns. The United Nations has been instrumental in attempting to establish a legal framework for a peaceful resolution, with various resolutions and initiatives aimed at promoting peace negotiations and upholding the human rights of all those involved.
Context of the UK Shadow Cabinet Minister’s Statement
Who is the UK Shadow Cabinet Minister?
The UK Shadow Cabinet Minister in question is Rachel Reeves, a British politician and member of the Labour Party. She currently holds the position of Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster in Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour frontbench team. This role places her as one of the most senior figures in the opposition and a key spokesperson on various government issues.
Role in the political landscape
As a Shadow Cabinet Minister, Rachel Reeves plays a pivotal role in shaping the Labour Party’s political narrative and response to government policies. Her position in the shadow cabinet allows her to scrutinise the actions of the current administration, particularly on issues concerning the Duchy of Lancaster. She is expected to provide alternative views and proposals that distinguish Labour from the Conservatives.
Previous statements and involvement on the issue
Previously, Rachel Reeves has demonstrated a strong commitment to social justice, economic growth and public services. In the past, she held roles as Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy as well as Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Her statements on these positions have emphasised Labour’s plans for a fairer economy, investment in infrastructure and green jobs creation.
I The Concern: “There is a real concern that “international law is not being applied
“
Description of the statement made by the UK Shadow Cabinet Minister:
“There is a real concern that international law is not being applied in Palestine and Israel, and we believe that the international community has a responsibility to uphold international human rights and humanitarian law. The situation must not be allowed to continue with impunity.”
The statement was made by Emma Lewell-Buck, a Labour Party Shadow Minister for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, during a debate in the House of Commons on June 23, 2021. Her words echoed those of many international observers and human rights groups.
Analysis of the concern:
Specific laws not being applied:
The UK Shadow Cabinet Minister’s comment refers to two major branches of international law: International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (IHRL). IHL regulates the conduct of armed conflicts, including protection of civilians and prohibition of certain acts, such as torture or willful killing. IHRL, on the other hand, sets standards for civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights for individuals.
Implications for the parties involved:
Israel:
Israel, as an occupying power in the Palestinian territories, is bound by both IHL and IHRL. Failure to respect these legal frameworks could result in potential accountability for human rights violations under international law.
Palestine:
Palestinians, as the occupied population, are also entitled to protection under these laws. The situation in which they live, marked by ongoing violence and displacement, raises serious concerns about their human rights and the failure of the international community to enforce applicable laws.
Effects on civilians and overall peace efforts:
The disregard for international law can have devastating consequences on the civilian population, who often bear the brunt of violence and displacement. Moreover, the lack of respect for international law makes it more challenging to achieve lasting peace efforts and a just resolution to the conflict.
Previous international attempts to enforce the application of international law:
Role of organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, and International Criminal Court:
Various international bodies have attempted to address these concerns. The United Nations (UN), with its resolutions and peacekeeping missions, has played a pivotal role in maintaining the international legal framework for the conflict. The European Union (EU), through its diplomatic efforts and financial support, has also tried to influence the situation.
Outcomes and limitations:
Despite these attempts, the situation remains unresolved. The UN Security Council’s inability to pass resolutions due to the veto power of permanent members, and the ICC’s jurisdiction only applying when a state is unable or unwilling to investigate or prosecute, has resulted in significant limitations to the effectiveness of international action.
Possible reasons for the lack of application of international law
Political considerations:
Power dynamics between Israel and Palestine:
The power dynamics between Israel and Palestine have significantly influenced the application of international law in the region. The conflict, which began in the late 19th century with the Zionist movement and the establishment of Israel in 1948, has been marked by a complex web of political, historical, and religious issues. The unequal power relationship between the two parties has made it challenging for international law to be applied effectively. Israel, as a military and economic powerhouse in the region, has often been shielded from accountability by major world powers, while Palestine, lacking a unified government and resources, has struggled to assert its rights.
International community’s role in influencing parties:
The international community, particularly the United Nations and major world powers, have also played a significant role in the lack of application of international law. The inconsistent application of resolutions, vetoes by permanent members of the Security Council, and the absence of a unified stance on the conflict have weakened the normative power of international law. The international community’s failure to hold Israel accountable for its actions, such as settlement building and military actions in Gaza, has further emboldened Israel to disregard international law.
Practical challenges in implementing international law:
Limited resources for monitoring and enforcement:
The practical challenges in implementing international law in the Israel-Palestine conflict are vast. The limited resources available for monitoring and enforcement of international law, particularly in the context of an ongoing conflict with no clear end in sight, make it difficult to ensure compliance. The United Nations and other international organizations lack the necessary resources to effectively monitor violations of international law and hold parties accountable.
Complex nature of the conflict:
Complex nature of the conflict:
The complex nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict further complicates the application of international law. The conflict involves a multitude of issues, including territorial disputes, human rights violations, and religious tensions, which are interconnected and often fuel each other. The lack of a clear legal framework for resolving these issues makes it challenging to apply international law effectively. Furthermore, the involvement of external actors and shifting alliances among regional and global powers add to the complexity and unpredictability of the situation.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the lack of application of international law in the Israel-Palestine conflict can be attributed to both political considerations and practical challenges. The power dynamics between Israel and Palestine, as well as the role of major world powers in shaping the conflict, have hindered the application of international law. Additionally, the limited resources available for monitoring and enforcement, as well as the complex nature of the conflict, make it a challenge to ensure compliance with international legal norms.
Sources:
B’Tselem. “Israel’s Commitments under International Law.” link
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. “Occupied Palestinian Territory.” link
International Crisis Group. “Israel/Palestine: The Two-State Solution.” link
Amnesty International. “Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.” link
Potential Solutions to Address the Concern
Diplomatic Efforts
- Negotiations between Israel and Palestine facilitated by international actors:
Diplomatic efforts have long been a key component in addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. International actors, such as the United States, Europe, and the United Nations, have facilitated negotiations between Israel and Palestine in an attempt to reach a peaceful resolution. These talks have included various proposals for a two-state solution, with the establishment of an independent Palestine living side by side with Israel.
Diplomatic efforts also involve the implementation of peaceful resolution mechanisms, such as ceasefires and peace treaties. For instance, numerous UN resolutions call for an end to violence and the implementation of a peaceful solution based on international law and relevant Security Council resolutions.
Legal Action
Another potential solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict involves legal action.
- Role of the International Criminal Court in investigating potential war crimes:
The International Criminal Court (ICC) plays a significant role in holding individuals accountable for human rights abuses and potential war crimes committed during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The ICC has opened investigations into alleged war crimes committed by both sides, including the construction of settlements on occupied Palestinian territory and rocket attacks from Gaza.
Legal action can also take the form of international sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and other measures against individuals and entities who violate human rights or international law. For instance, the European Union has suspended funding to certain Israeli settlements in response to their continued expansion on occupied Palestinian territory.
Public Awareness and Advocacy
A third potential solution involves public awareness and advocacy.
- Role of civil society, media, and international organizations in raising awareness:
Civil society, media outlets, and international organizations can raise public awareness about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and put pressure on governments to take action. This can be accomplished through various means, such as organizing protests, social media campaigns, and advocacy efforts aimed at elected officials and international institutions.
Public awareness campaigns can also help put pressure on governments to take action in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. For instance, civil society organizations and advocacy groups have successfully lobbied for policies like divestment from Israeli settlements or the adoption of UN resolutions condemning human rights abuses.
VI. Conclusion
In this article, we have explored the complex and long-standing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, focusing on the recent tensions in Jerusalem and the potential for escalation into a larger war.
Key Points:
We began by discussing the historical background of the conflict, the significance of Jerusalem to both sides, and the escalating violence in the area. Next, we examined the international community’s response, including condemnations from various countries and organizations, as well as calls for de-escalation and diplomacy. Finally, we considered the potential implications of the conflict for future peace efforts and international relations.
Implications:
Future Conflict Resolution Efforts:
The current situation underscores the need for continued dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, as well as renewed international engagement. (Italic) It is essential that all parties involved refrain from taking actions that further inflame tensions and risk escalation into larger, more destructive conflicts.
Application of International Law:
The application of international law is crucial in preventing violence and ensuring accountability for human rights abuses. (Italic) The international community must work together to uphold the principles of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, particularly in areas where conflict and instability persist.
International Relations:
The Israel-Palestine conflict has significant implications for international relations and global peace and security. (Italic) As tensions continue to rise, the potential for regional instability and broader geopolitical implications grows. It is essential that the international community remains engaged and proactive in promoting peace and human rights, and in preventing further escalation of conflict.
Call to Action:
Encouraging Dialogue:
We encourage readers and stakeholders to engage in dialogue with individuals from both sides of the conflict, fostering understanding and mutual respect. This can include joining interfaith or intercultural organizations, participating in educational programs, or engaging in online forums dedicated to promoting peace and dialogue.
Advocacy:
Supporting organizations and initiatives that promote peace, human rights, and diplomacy is crucial. (Italic) This can involve volunteering, donating resources, or simply raising awareness through social media and other channels.
Organizations:
Some organizations to consider include the United Nations, the European Union, the Quartet (the United States, Russia, the European Union, and the United Nations), and local grassroots initiatives dedicated to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and human rights advocacy. By working together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals affected by this longstanding conflict and contribute to a more peaceful, stable world.
