Navigating the Legal Landscape of Conflict: Israel, Palestine, and War Crimes
Israel's current operations in Gaza have seen a shift in discourse and conduct, with less emphasis on international law. Statements by Israeli leaders expressing intent to harm Palestinians and the use of starvation as a method of war have legal implications. Legality affects public support for military operations, but Israeli public opinion may differ due to the constant threat of rocket fire and terrorism. Compliance with international law sustains support from Western democracies, while violating it risks backlash and inflames regional populations. Indiscriminate harm to civilians hardens attitudes and blocks routes to peace. Moral arguments alone are unlikely to reduce wrongdoing, making international law crucial for survival in Israel and Palestine.