Even after more than seventy years, Palestine remains a pressing global concern. Despite the aspirations to end Israel’s oppressive occupation, countless innocent Palestinians have tragically passed away without seeing their dream of freedom realized. Regrettably, the United Nations has yet to successfully address and resolve the issue of Israeli occupation.
Since October 7 of last year, over 36,000 innocent Palestinians have died in the ongoing conflict in Gaza; the majority of the region has collapsed, and now Israel, which is obsessed with war, has attacked Rafah.
Overindulged in power, the evil Israel is flouting the OIC, Security Council, and United Nations regulations. It appears that Israel is reliving the terrorism of 1948, which resulted in the destruction of 528 villages and the deaths of around 800,000 Palestinians. The bloodlust for blood is growing in Israel, despite the 36 thousand lives that have been lost due to the savagery that has been ongoing since October of last year.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has unequivocally demanded that Israel cease its attacks on Rafah. The UN Charter’s Chapters 6 and 7 are instrumental in enforcing ICJ rulings. Chapter 6 enables the imposition of sanctions on non-compliant nations, while Chapter 7 allows for the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces.
Despite the ICJ’s injunction against Israeli aggression in Rafah, its enforcement is hindered by the unwavering support of the United States, leading to continued transgressions. The failure to implement international law perpetuates this cycle of atrocities.
Regarding the recognition of Palestine as an independent state, 140 countries within the United Nations have already extended recognition, albeit notable exceptions such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Among these recognitions are endorsements from key organizations like the Arab League, comprising 22 nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, representing 57 countries, and the Non-Aligned Movement, including 120 member states.
Recent indications from Ireland, Norway, Spain, and potentially Australia suggest a growing momentum towards recognizing Palestine, aiming to expedite a two-state solution. Peace negotiations initiated in the 1990s had aimed at resolving the conflict through such a framework.
Following the tragic events in Gaza, atrocities persist in Rafah, yet many Islamic nations remain silent, possibly due to apprehensions about repercussions from major powers. However, as European countries begin recognizing Palestine, there’s a likelihood of increased condemnation of Israel’s actions and support for Palestinians.
A recent vote within the United Nations saw 143 out of 193 countries endorsing Palestine’s membership, elevating its status from a non-member observer. However, previous attempts by Palestine to secure permanent membership in 2011 and 2012 were met with opposition from Israel and the United States.
Recognizing Palestine as an independent state faces obstacles, as countries risk facing repercussions from the United States. Funding for pro-Palestinian organizations has been curtailed recently. While many countries globally recognize Palestine, its symbolic status lacks full rights until a United Nations Security Council resolution designates it as the 194th member state. Such recognition would enhance Palestinian diplomatic leverage and enable participation in UN treaties.
With 140 nations already recognizing Palestine and potential defense agreements from Islamic countries, there’s a prospect of troop deployment to aid and safeguard Palestine, strengthening its position on the global stage.
