Albanese attacks European positions: International justice faces a serious test

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, leveled sharp criticism at some European countries, accusing them of continuing to support Israel through arms deals and security and trade cooperation, despite the accusations against it of committing grave violations in Gaza.

Albanese said the continuation of this support raises serious questions about Europe’s commitment to the principles of international law and human rights, warning of what she described as the “normalization of Israeli policies within the European landscape.”

She also noted that Israel is facing accusations related to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide before both the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice, arguing that the absence of decisive steps by the International Criminal Court raises concerns about the effectiveness and independence of the international justice system.

In the same context, legal and human rights experts warned of political pressure being exerted by European countries on the International Criminal Court with the aim of limiting any measures that could target Israeli officials, something that could negatively affect the course of international accountability and the credibility of cross-border justice.