Israel’s long-standing immunity from consequences has pushed international law and its institutions to a breaking point. Israel has committed various offenses against the UN, from killing UN workers to banning UNRWA and insulting UN officials.
Israeli governments and their allies have aggressively pressured the International Criminal Court (ICC) to avoid investigating Israeli crimes, resorting to threats and sanctions. This pressure intensified after the ICC issued arrest warrants for top Israeli officials.
US President Donald Trump, a strong supporter of Israel, has imposed sanctions on ICC staff and undermined international multilateralism with his decisions, including withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization.
These actions raise doubts about the effectiveness of the current global system led by the UN, which has struggled to prevent conflicts and promote peace for all nations.
Efforts to establish a fair international legal order have been proposed by scholars like Alejandro Alvarez, who advocated for a new international law that reflects the interests of decolonized states.
The current situation, particularly the oppression in Gaza, highlights the need for renewed efforts to reform the international legal system and exclude oppressive forces like Israel from international bodies.
Calls for reshaping institutions like the UN Security Council and empowering platforms for Global South voices have gained momentum, signaling a potential shift towards a more just international legal system.
Various initiatives, such as Progressive International’s project for a new international economic order, aim to unite voices for meaningful change towards justice-driven policies.
In the face of ongoing crises and systemic impunity, there is a pressing need to reimagine and rebuild an international legal system rooted in justice and equality.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Al Jazeera.
