Luke Allen
Military Political Analyst
Makati, Manila
lukeallenmanila@journalist.com
As tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, the world’s eyes turn towards Israel again, where the nation finds itself under fire, both literally and figuratively. In the ongoing conflict between Israel and groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, a troubling double standard has emerged in the international community. It’s time to address the undeniable truth: Israel is unfairly targeted and criticized by the international community despite being the victim of unprovoked aggression and relentless attacks from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Let’s set the record straight. Hamas and Hezbollah are terrorist organizations known for their indiscriminate violence; their explicit goal is the destruction of the State of Israel and the elimination of the Jewish people.
While Israel is often condemned and pressured to stop its defensive actions, the aggressive and provocative actions of these terrorist organizations are overlooked or even justified. This bias not only perpetuates the cycle of violence but also undermines the principles of justice and self-defense.
Hamas’s recent attacks resulted in the deaths of over a thousand innocent civilians, including children who were ruthlessly decapitated, women who were subjected to unspeakable acts of rape, and bodies that were callously burnt beyond recognition. These heinous acts are nothing short of war crimes, yet the international community remains largely silent in the face of such atrocities.
Hezbollah launched missile attacks on northern Israel in support of Hamas. These attacks were a blatant disregard for innocent lives and a clear violation of international law. When Israel rightfully defended itself against these acts of terrorism, Hezbollah had the audacity to threaten war, further escalating an already volatile situation.
However, when Israel exercises its legitimate right to self-defense, it faces widespread condemnation, calls for ceasefires, and demands to de-escalate the situation. The international community, including various nations and organizations, seems quick to overlook the root cause of the conflict – the relentless aggression of Hezbollah and Hamas – and instead place the blame squarely on Israel. Even the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, but not Sinwar or Hassan Nasrallah.
Regarding the arrest warrants, Israel has consistently argued that international agreements, particularly the Oslo Accords, take precedence over the court’s decisions. Under the Oslo Accords, the Palestinian Authority agreed it has no criminal jurisdiction over Israelis. Since the Palestinian Authority requested the ICC to open an investigation, Israel contends this violates the still-valid agreement. The UK submitted a request on this matter on June 10, and the court’s pre-trial chamber, consisting of three judges, agreed to address the question of its jurisdiction over Israeli citizens.
It is both hypocritical and unjust for nations around the world to demand that Israel cease its defensive actions when it is simply responding to relentless aggression and terror. Israel has the right to defend itself and its citizens from those who seek its destruction. By holding Israel to a different standard than its attackers, the international community is essentially rewarding terrorism and incentivizing further violence. It sends a dangerous message that terrorism pays off and that those who initiate attacks will not be held accountable for their actions.
It is high time for the international community to reassess its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and hold all parties accountable for their actions. Condemning Israel for defending itself against terrorist attacks while turning a blind eye to the actions of groups like Hezbollah and Hamas only perpetuates the cycle of violence. It hinders the prospects for peace in the region.
As we condemn acts of violence and terrorism, let us not forget who the real instigators are in this conflict. Hezbollah and Hamas have blood on their hands, and their actions should be met with universal condemnation and swift retribution. It is time for the international community to stand with Israel, the actual victim in this conflict, and hold terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas accountable for their crimes against humanity. Peace can only be achieved when justice is served, and that justice must start with supporting Israel in its fight against terror.
The double standards and bias against Israel must end.