International Law Now Demands Sanctions Against Israel: Expert Warns of Urgent Action Needed

International Law Mandates Sanctions on Israel: Expert Urges Immediate Action The ongoing conflict in Israel has prompted a renewed focus on international legal obligations regarding sanctions. Phyllis Bennis, a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies, recently emphasized that these sanctions are no longer optional but legally required. In a compelling video interview, Bennis detailed the various types of sanctions that governments are now obligated to impose. "These are not simply sanctions that a government may choose to impose or not choose to impose," Bennis stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation. She explained that this legal obligation stems from international law, making it imperative for governments to act. Bennis provided concrete examples of potential sanctions, including comprehensive arms embargoes, meaning "not buying or selling arms to or from Israel." She also mentioned trade sanctions, corporate sanctions, banking sanctions, tourism restrictions, and asset freezes. She cited Colombia's decision to cut off fuel supplies and stop selling coal to Israel as an example of a government already implementing such restrictions. The urgency of the situation, according to Bennis, is driven by the daily loss of life. She argued that if governments were to fully implement the available sanctions, it could lead to accountability for those responsible for war crimes. "I think we would see an end to some of that practice," she concluded, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing crisis.