In this episode of "Have It Out with Galloway," George Galloway delves into accusations of Israeli war crimes alongside Professor Francis Boyle, an expert in international law. The discussion covers Israel's alleged war crimes, the inaction of the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the broader political and legal challenges in holding Israeli leaders accountable. With insights from various guests and audience members, the conversation also explores the role of public opinion, economic boycotts, and the geopolitical forces shaping international justice.

Allegations of Israeli War Crimes and ICC Inaction

Professor Francis Boyle discusses Israel's alleged war crimes and the International Criminal Court's (ICC) lack of action. He recalls how six months ago, the ICC found Israel potentially guilty of genocide and requested arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Galant, but no further action has been taken. Boyle criticizes the ICC's ineffectiveness, particularly concerning Israel, which continues to occupy a seat at the UN without facing repercussions, despite attacks on UN institutions in Gaza.

The Ineffectiveness of International Courts

Boyle emphasizes the limitations of international courts and judicial bodies in holding Israel accountable for war crimes. While these legal mechanisms play a role, he argues they are often used as propaganda by Western nations supporting Israel. He reflects on his experience representing Bosnia in the International Court of Justice, highlighting how political and military support for indicted leaders hinders effective legal punishment.

Shielding Israel from Accountability

Boyle draws parallels between Israel and Slobodan Milošević, whose trial on genocide charges was ultimately dismissed. He argues that Israel, unlike official enemies of Western powers, is protected from facing justice. Despite this, Boyle remains committed to bringing Israeli leaders to trial, with ongoing efforts from an international team of lawyers and civil resistance.

ICC Faces Intimidation and Pressure

Boyle criticizes the intimidation faced by the ICC's Chief Prosecutor, Mr. Khan KC, who requested arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Galant but has been blocked due to political pressure. The discussion highlights the hypocrisy of nations advocating for a rules-based order while undermining the ICC, especially in relation to Israeli war crimes.

Amnesty International Report on Gaza War Crimes

George Galloway and guest Andreas discuss Amnesty International's report accusing Israel of war crimes in Gaza. They focus on Israel's destruction of civilian infrastructure, such as residential buildings and hospitals, in what Galloway describes as an unnecessary buffer zone, causing immense civilian harm. The conversation also critiques the limits of diplomatic discourse, suggesting brute force may be required to confront Israeli leaders like Netanyahu.

The Role of Military Power in Addressing Injustice

The discussion shifts to the importance of military resistance in addressing Israel’s apartheid regime. Legal and diplomatic efforts are acknowledged, but military force is deemed essential to confront Israeli aggression. The speaker also comments on the UK's reliance on financial sectors, and how opposing U.S. pressure could have broader global consequences.

Eurocentric World Order and Israel's Immunity

Dr. Rahana Ali discusses the global dominance of Eurocentric thinking, arguing that countries like the U.S. and UK are effectively vassal states of powerful interests. She critiques Israel’s impunity on the global stage, questioning its right to exist as a political entity in light of its treatment of Palestinians, drawing comparisons to fallen regimes like Nazi Germany.

Public Opinion and Economic Boycotts

George Galloway highlights the influence of public opinion and economic boycotts in challenging Israeli policies. Ahmed Amin, a caller from Southampton, advocates for boycotting companies supporting Israel and emphasizes how collective consumer action can pressure governments and corporations, shaping international relations.

Boycott and Journalistic Freedom

Galloway encourages listeners to support the boycott against companies backing Israel, while criticizing the suppression of journalists who oppose Israeli actions. He mentions the detention of independent journalists in the UK, and introduces former British Ambassador Craig Murray, who fled the country due to fear of persecution for his dissenting views.

Repression in England and the Ukraine Crisis

In the final segment, Galloway and Dr. Ray Higginson discuss the repression in England and the dangers posed by the NATO proxy war in Ukraine. Higginson warns of the looming nuclear threat, drawing comparisons to past crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis, and laments the lack of public awareness and political action concerning the risks of nuclear escalation.

Professor Francis Boyle is a distinguished American professor of international law at the University of Illinois College of Law. Renowned for his expertise in human rights and international law, Boyle has played a significant role in several high-profile legal battles. His critical views on international institutions, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC), and his advocacy for justice in global conflicts mark him as a prominent voice in the field of international law.