By Dr Bodour Nasser Behbehani
Genocide continues in Gaza under the guise of a ‘ceasefire’, revealing a crisis in the international community’s failure to intervene and uphold human rights. The complicity of Western nations, especially the US and its European allies, is evident through their military and diplomatic support that legitimizes the Zionist entity’s actions against Palestinians. Additionally, the decline of US influence and the emergence of a multipolar world indicate a shift in global power dynamics as nations demand justice. The struggle for Palestinian rights is connected to broader global efforts for justice and equality, highlighting the need for collective action and accountability.
In light of this, I am compelled to address a series of critical questions currently on the minds of the international community: Why has the international community not intervened to stop the killing of tens of thousands of innocent people? How can nations — under the supposed guidance of international law — remain silent in the face of such atrocities? Moreover, how have these calls for justice, which have led to widespread mass protests in cities worldwide, failed to influence government actions? This is a painful inquiry into a significant crisis of our global order.
The Palestinian people have suffered for 76 long years, and the past year and a half have seen this suffering rise to horrific levels, documented as genocide. The world is waking up to the fact that Western nations are giving political cover to these atrocities in broad daylight, and this growing awareness is laying bare the systemic racism and injustices characterizing the treatment of Palestinians. The United States and its European allies contribute to the oppression of the Palestinian people through military assistance, diplomatic support and the narratives shaped by their leaders, which lend political legitimacy to the illegal and inhumane actions against Palestinians.
This alliance represents a troubling moral failing, perpetuating violence and disregarding the cries for justice from Palestinian communities. Western media’s silence on the plight of Palestinian children in Zionist prisons under horrific conditions contributes to a disturbing complicity among those who claim to advocate for human rights, allowing these injustices to go unchallenged. The unconditional support of Western powers for the Zionist entity, despite mounting evidence of brutality and suffering, exacerbates the crisis and deepens the global sense of injustice. This unwavering backing raises questions about the effectiveness and morality of the current world order.
Western moral authority is being called into question, exposing hypocrisy as American influence wanes in international institutions like the United Nations (UN) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The US has become increasingly isolated in its stance against calls for a ceasefire, often voting to continue hostilities while many member states support ending the violence. The UNSC’s inability to uphold international law in Gaza reflects the diminishing capacity of the US to lead a unified international response, as member states increasingly seek alternatives to US-led initiatives. This indicates a shift in global order and balance of power toward more independent, multipolar strategies that bypass traditional Western dominance.
Nations are increasingly asserting their independence, as seen in Burkina Faso’s challenge to French dominance, signaling a broader rejection of neo-colonialism and a shift toward a multipolar world where US dominance wanes. This movement reflects a wider uprising against exploitation, economic inequality, and unchecked capitalism. The collective voice of discontent is gaining momentum, urging governments to either heed the demands of their people or face repercussions.
This moment offers transformative opportunities on both international and domestic fronts, linking struggles for justice into a unified narrative. Understanding the fight for justice in Palestine within this global context highlights its connection to broader struggles against oppression, inequality, and systemic injustices everywhere. The harsh realities faced by one group can send ripples that affect global stability and morality.
Amid this transformative moment in history, we must recognize the interconnectedness of our struggles. The demand for justice in Palestine aligns with the calls for change from oppressed communities worldwide, illustrating that these struggles are not isolated but rather part of a collective narrative. Viewing the plight of the Palestinian people through the framework of universal human rights reveals that their fight reflects our shared humanity.
As the world confronts these truths, we must unite in our demands for justice, holding those in power accountable and challenging the systems that perpetuate injustice. Standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people affirms that their struggle is a call for justice for all, inherently linking the pursuit of justice for Palestine to the pursuit of justice everywhere.
NOTE: Dr Bodour Nasser Behbehani is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Kuwait University. Her research focuses on international relations and global politics, with specific interests in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions.