Palestinian Ambassador for Indonesia Advocates for Economic Sanctions Against Israel

The Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Zuhair Al-Shun, has called for economic sanctions against Israel in response to ongoing military actions in Gaza. His appeal, made during a vigil at the Palestinian Embassy, emphasizes the need for isolation and sanctions across various domains. Despite UN resolutions calling for ceasefire and humanitarian assistance, Israel’s offensive has persisted, raising concerns about potential war crimes.

Ambassador Zuhair Al-Shun of Palestine to Indonesia has urged the international community to enforce economic sanctions against Israel, citing ongoing military actions, including bombardments and blockades, in the Gaza Strip. During a candlelight vigil at the Palestinian Embassy in Jakarta on November 2, 2023, Al-Shun emphasized, “First, Israel must be isolated. Second, sanctions must be implemented against [Israel]. Economically, politically, and even regarding travel.” Economic sanctions serve as a diplomatic tool to compel nations to alter their foreign policies, often involving measures like travel bans, asset freezes, and trade restrictions. Al-Shun pointed out the ineffectiveness of international appeals for a ceasefire, stating, “They refused to listen to anyone.” Recently, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution calling for a humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas, receiving 120 votes in favor, with 45 abstentions and 14 votes against, including those from Israel and the United States. This resolution came after unsuccessful proposals for legally binding actions in the UN Security Council due to vetoes from the US and Russia. Despite the UN’s efforts, Israel has continued its military offensive in Gaza, actions characterized by many as disproportionate and possibly amounting to war crimes. Moreover, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki had earlier visited The Hague to request an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) into alleged Israeli war crimes. The ICC prosecutor, Karim Khan, confirmed the court’s jurisdiction over potential war crimes involving both Hamas and Israel, stating that withholding humanitarian assistance is also an alleged war crime. The ICC has been probing accusations of war crimes in Palestine since 2021.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian territories has seen significant military actions, especially in Gaza. Recent escalations have led to a humanitarian crisis, prompting calls for international intervention. Economic sanctions, a traditional method by which states apply pressure for policy change, have been proposed as a solution to address the situation. Sanctions can include restrictions on trade, travel, and financial assets, aimed at influencing state behavior on the global stage. The UN has also been active in responding to the humanitarian crises resulting from military actions, although the effectiveness of its resolutions has often been challenged by geopolitical dynamics, such as veto powers in the Security Council.

In summary, the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia has made a compelling call for international economic sanctions against Israel, framing them as essential for compelling Israel to heed global calls for peace and adherence to international law. The ongoing military actions in Gaza, alongside allegations of war crimes, continue to drive the discourse within international forums such as the UN and the ICC. The urgency for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire is underscored by recent UN resolutions, highlighting the growing international concern regarding the conflict.

Original Source: en.tempo.co