Türkiye’s stance on Israel crucial, says International law expert

International law professor Mohammad Shahabuddin applauds Türkiye’s trade restrictions on Israel as a powerful form of political pressure

Türkiye’s decision to impose export restrictions on Israel has essential implications for the region, according to Mohammad Shahabuddin, a leading professor of international law and human rights at the University of Birmingham in the U.K.

Shahabuddin asserted that such measures, including protests against Israel, are powerful political pressures that catalyze potentially significant change.

‘Mass mobilization is a driver for change’

“Mass mobilizations are an example of this political pressure. This is what will create change. This pressure will cause political elites and actors to take concrete measures,” he noted.

Shahabuddin described Türkiye’s decision on April 9 to impose trade restrictions on Israel as an essential step.

He expressed optimism that it could inspire neighboring countries to follow in the same footsteps.

Shahabuddin also condemned Israel as the most frequent violator of U.N. Security Council resolutions and other international authorities.

Criticizing the selective application of international law, especially regarding powerful states, Shahabuddin suggested that such states often avoid accountability for their violations.

‘Selective justice’

“International law was a tool for colonialism. Today it is a tool for imperialism,” Shahabuddin said, highlighting the perceived hypocrisy of the international legal framework.

On the International Criminal Court (ICC), Shahabuddin criticized its failure to take decisive action against Israeli authorities despite compelling evidence of atrocities in Gaza. Noting that the ICC has acted swiftly in other conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, Shahabuddin urged similar action in the Gaza case.

Shahabuddin also emphasized the importance of pressuring Israel to stop its attacks or change its actions, arguing that influential allies can impact Israel’s actions. Shahabuddin added he is awaiting the legal rulings of the ICC and hopes that these rulings will prompt Western countries to reassess their stance toward Israel.

Source: AA