Powerless UN, Zionism risks to global stability
Published: 02:10 PM,Oct 10,2024 | EDITED : 06:10 PM,Oct 10,2024
A man stands on a damaged building in the aftermath of an Israeli strike that hit a building, in Wardaniyeh, Lebanon, on Wednesday. — Reuters
Since its creation after World War II, the United Nations was meant to uphold global security, promote peace, and resolve conflicts through dialogue, as outlined in its Charter. With over 200 member states, all nations must commit to the Charter’s principles upon joining. However, decades of performance show significant breaches of this Charter, particularly by powerful nations like the United States.
The US has engaged in illegal wars, starting with its colonial interventions in Korea and Vietnam, followed by invasions of Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. The US has also actively supported Israel’s military campaigns in Palestine, supplying lethal weapons and providing intelligence. This ongoing backing has led to the deaths of thousands of Palestinian civilians, exposing America’s long-standing violations of international law since the war's end.
One might wonder why the UN hasn’t imposed sanctions on such behaviour. The reality is that the organisation often falls short of even condemning Washington, leading to a weakened role in regional and international crises. Instead of strong actions, the UN now only issues statements expressing concern or calling for de-escalation.
Britain and France, among other major powers, have also overstepped international law to a lesser degree. Examples include Britain’s war with Argentina over the Falkland Islands and France’s interventions in Africa. Despite these actions, no real consequences have followed for these countries.
Israel, established in 1948, is perhaps the most egregious example of a nation acting outside the framework of international law. Since its formation, Israel has regularly disregarded global norms. A clear demonstration of this was when its representative tore up the UN Charter in front of world leaders, an act that showed utter disrespect for the organisation and its members.
Given these repeated violations, why hasn’t Israel faced sanctions or expulsion? Developing nations within the Group of 77, which represent a majority of the UN membership, could push for such measures. Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza and Lebanon, including its attacks on civilians, hospitals, and UN personnel, clearly violates international humanitarian law.
The behaviour of Israel resembles more that of a gang than a legitimate state. It continues to act with impunity, supported by its allies. Yet, the Non-Aligned Movement has the potential to challenge Israel at the UN General Assembly, pressing for sanctions or warnings to hold the country accountable.
Though American pressure may thwart such efforts, simply bringing the issue to the forefront could force Israel into an uncomfortable position before the international community. Coordinated action by African, Latin American, and other sympathetic nations could push the Secretary-General to address Israel’s disregard for international law.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Zionist project, backed by the US and certain Arab states that have normalised relations, poses an existential threat to the Arab world. This project, which aims to eliminate Palestinian and Lebanese resistance, seeks to extend Israeli dominance throughout the region. If left unchecked, it threatens to undermine Arab identity and culture, creating a homogenous region under Israeli influence.
The Zionist agenda also targets Arab youth through technology and cultural shifts, encouraging rebellion against traditional values. This movement represents an attempt to erase national identity, making the need for Arab resistance all the more critical. The October 7, 2013 incident marked a key moment in resisting this project, demonstrating that Arab nations must remain vigilant and united in defending their identity and future.
Translated by Badar al Dhafari
The original version of this article was published in Arabic in the print edition of Oman newspaper on 09 October 2024.
The US has engaged in illegal wars, starting with its colonial interventions in Korea and Vietnam, followed by invasions of Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. The US has also actively supported Israel’s military campaigns in Palestine, supplying lethal weapons and providing intelligence. This ongoing backing has led to the deaths of thousands of Palestinian civilians, exposing America’s long-standing violations of international law since the war's end.
One might wonder why the UN hasn’t imposed sanctions on such behaviour. The reality is that the organisation often falls short of even condemning Washington, leading to a weakened role in regional and international crises. Instead of strong actions, the UN now only issues statements expressing concern or calling for de-escalation.
Britain and France, among other major powers, have also overstepped international law to a lesser degree. Examples include Britain’s war with Argentina over the Falkland Islands and France’s interventions in Africa. Despite these actions, no real consequences have followed for these countries.
Israel, established in 1948, is perhaps the most egregious example of a nation acting outside the framework of international law. Since its formation, Israel has regularly disregarded global norms. A clear demonstration of this was when its representative tore up the UN Charter in front of world leaders, an act that showed utter disrespect for the organisation and its members.
Given these repeated violations, why hasn’t Israel faced sanctions or expulsion? Developing nations within the Group of 77, which represent a majority of the UN membership, could push for such measures. Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza and Lebanon, including its attacks on civilians, hospitals, and UN personnel, clearly violates international humanitarian law.
The behaviour of Israel resembles more that of a gang than a legitimate state. It continues to act with impunity, supported by its allies. Yet, the Non-Aligned Movement has the potential to challenge Israel at the UN General Assembly, pressing for sanctions or warnings to hold the country accountable.
Though American pressure may thwart such efforts, simply bringing the issue to the forefront could force Israel into an uncomfortable position before the international community. Coordinated action by African, Latin American, and other sympathetic nations could push the Secretary-General to address Israel’s disregard for international law.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Zionist project, backed by the US and certain Arab states that have normalised relations, poses an existential threat to the Arab world. This project, which aims to eliminate Palestinian and Lebanese resistance, seeks to extend Israeli dominance throughout the region. If left unchecked, it threatens to undermine Arab identity and culture, creating a homogenous region under Israeli influence.
The Zionist agenda also targets Arab youth through technology and cultural shifts, encouraging rebellion against traditional values. This movement represents an attempt to erase national identity, making the need for Arab resistance all the more critical. The October 7, 2013 incident marked a key moment in resisting this project, demonstrating that Arab nations must remain vigilant and united in defending their identity and future.
Translated by Badar al Dhafari
The original version of this article was published in Arabic in the print edition of Oman newspaper on 09 October 2024.