Podcast discusses international law in Gaza
A new episode of the podcast On s'autorise à penser features Jérôme Heurtaux, a political scientist from Dauphine University, discussing his book titled Who will hold Israel accountable? Is international law dead in Gaza?, published by Riveneuve editions.Focus on events of October 7
The discussion centers around the events of October 7, three years later, and the role of international law in addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Heurtaux highlights the perceived impotence of international institutions in halting what he describes as a genocidal enterprise following the deadly attack on October 7, 2023.Historical violations of international law
He notes that international law has historically been violated in the context of the Palestinian question, contributing to the conditions that led to October 7 and its consequences. Despite these violations, Heurtaux emphasizes the necessity of international law in defining and addressing crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.Role of international legal institutions
He references the work of the International Court of Justice of the United Nations and the International Criminal Court in identifying the nature of actions taken by the Israeli state and its military in Gaza. He also discusses the history of international legal institutions, including the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (1993-2017) and the Rwanda tribunal (1994-2015).Limitations and importance of international law
He points out that while international law is not without contradictions or ambiguities, it provides essential benchmarks and a horizon of hope in the face of state violence. The lack of effective coercive means to sanction violations remains a major issue, according to Heurtaux, but the existence of legal definitions is crucial for identifying the nature of actions committed.
