Palestinian Ambassador Calls for Economic Sanctions Against Israel Amid Gaza Conflict
On November 2, 2023, Palestinian Ambassador Zuhair Al-Shun called for global economic sanctions against Israel due to ongoing military actions in Gaza. He highlighted the need for Israel’s isolation and compliance with international law, following a UN General Assembly resolution for a humanitarian truce, which Israel and the US opposed. Despite international pressure, Israel’s military operations persist, prompting calls for accountability from international bodies like the ICC.
On November 2, 2023, during a candle-lighting event at the Palestinian Embassy in Jakarta, Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia Zuhair Al-Shun urged the international community to impose economic sanctions on Israel amidst its ongoing military actions in the Gaza Strip. Al-Shun emphasized the necessity of isolating Israel, stating, “First, Israel must be isolated. Second, sanctions must be implemented against [Israel]. Economically, politically, and even regarding travel.” Economic sanctions are employed by governments to compel state actors to alter their foreign policies, encompassing measures such as travel bans, asset freezes, arms embargoes, and trade restrictions. Recent examples include sanctions against Russia due to its aggressive actions in Ukraine. Al-Shun asserted that sanctions are paramount given Israel’s disregard for international calls for adherence to ceasefire agreements. He remarked, “They refused to listen to anyone.” The call for sanctions follows a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly on October 27, urging an immediate humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas; this resolution received support from 120 nations, while 45 countries abstained and 14, including Israel and the United States, voted against it. This resolution gained attention after both the United States and Russia vetoed attempts to establish legally binding resolutions in the UN Security Council. Despite the UNGA’s actions, Israel has persisted with its airstrikes on Gaza, a situation many consider excessively forceful and amounting to war crimes. Al-Shun stated, “Members of the international community who wish for peace must abide by international law and regulations. Guarding Israel even to the high court over its massacres against Palestinians.” In light of these circumstances, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki had previously called for an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) into Israel’s alleged war crimes during a visit to Den Haag, Netherlands, on October 26. Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the ICC, has indicated that the court has jurisdiction regarding potential war crimes by both Hamas and Israel in Gaza, even though Israel is not a party to the ICC. Speaking to reporters in Egypt, Khan highlighted that withholding humanitarian aid, including fuel, could be classified as war crimes under ICC’s jurisdiction and confirmed that investigations into alleged war crimes in the territories occupied by Palestine have been ongoing since 2021.
The call for economic sanctions against Israel by Palestinian representatives is rooted in ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip, where military actions continue to escalate. This diplomatic effort reflects broader concerns about Israel’s compliance with international law in the context of its military operations. In recent times, international agencies have faced challenges in addressing aggressive actions by state actors, especially in sensitive geopolitical areas. The significance of economic sanctions arises from their role in pressuring governmental entities to reassess their foreign policy decisions, with various historical precedents highlighting their potential effectiveness. The recent UN General Assembly resolution seeking an immediate humanitarian truce is an illustration of the global community’s call for cessation of hostilities, following extensive debates that have been hindered by vetoes in the UN Security Council.
In conclusion, Palestinian Ambassador Zuhair Al-Shun’s call for economic sanctions against Israel underscores the urgency of international intervention in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The appeal reflects the broader failing of international mechanisms to effectively address violations of human rights and humanitarian law in contentious geopolitical scenarios. The dialogue surrounding economic sanctions continues to play a pivotal role in shaping diplomatic relations and potential resolutions to entrenched conflicts.
Original Source: en.tempo.co
