DZWatch Exclusive: A United Nations Special Rapporteur has stated that recent Israeli pronouncements regarding the establishment of settlements in the Gaza Strip constitute a clear violation of international law. George Katrougalos, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion of equitable international order, made the remarks in a recent statement.
Katrougalos emphasized the need to move beyond mere political condemnations and implement concrete measures to hold Israel accountable for its actions. His statement follows renewed threats from Israeli officials regarding the future of Gaza.
The Special Rapporteur asserted that verbal condemnations are insufficient to deter Israeli violations of international law. He suggested the imposition of sanctions on Israel and a ban on arms exports to the country as potential measures.
Katrougalos also criticized what he described as preferential treatment afforded to Israel on the international stage, arguing that this fosters a culture of impunity. He further lamented the apparent double standards in the application of international justice, pointing to the lack of legal accountability for Israeli leaders.
“The double standards are evident in the failure to bring Israeli leaders before the International Criminal Court,” Katrougalos stated.
Palestinian authorities have long urged the international community to pressure Israel to cease settlement activity in the occupied territories, which the United Nations deems illegal under international law.
