Rosalind Evans
Amal Clooney’s Controversial Stance
When the International Criminal Court (ICC) needed a top adviser to justify an appalling arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, it turned to Amal Clooney. The ultra-liberal British human rights lawyer, also known as the wife of George Clooney, willingly complied. In a statement regarding “Palestine,” Clooney declared that both Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar were guilty of war crimes.
The Atrocities of Hamas
Hamas deliberately targets civilians, as evidenced by the October 7 massacre, Israel’s most considerable one-day death toll since the Holocaust. In contrast, Israel attempts to minimize civilian casualties through warnings and leaflets. Critics may argue that Israel has used excessive force and created a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but equating Israel with a terrorist organization is a “travesty of justice” and a “disgrace,” as Netanyahu himself stated. He emphasized, “This is like creating a moral equivalence after September 11th between President Bush and Osama bin Laden, or during World War II between FDR and Hitler.”
The ICC’s Impact on U.S.-Israel Relations
Amal Clooney’s advice to the ICC, placing Hamas and Israel on the same moral ground, has sparked controversy. Ironically, her husband, George Clooney, is a prominent supporter of President Biden’s campaign. Yet, her stance implies that Biden supports a war criminal, complicating the political landscape. President Biden swiftly condemned the ICC’s ruling, calling it “outrageous” and stating there is no genocide by Israel.
Biden’s Balancing Act
Biden’s reaction to the ICC’s decision provided an opportunity to mend fences with Israel. However, his decision to withhold 2,000-pound bombs from Israel to prevent their use in heavily populated areas while simultaneously approving $1 billion in military funding showcases the delicate balance he must maintain. The far left, including members of Biden’s party, despise Israel, fueling violent campus protests and anti-Israel sentiment.
The Growing International Backlash
The ICC’s ruling has also prompted Republican leaders, such as House Speaker Mike Johnson, to push for sanctions against the court. The court’s reputation may be irreparably damaged due to its decision to equate the elected leader of Israel with the head of the Hamas dictatorship.
Meanwhile, Israel faced backlash for raiding an AP bureau in Gaza and confiscating camera equipment. The Associated Press condemned the action, but Israel returned the equipment, stating it needed further review. Additionally, Norway, Spain, and Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state following Hamas’s brutal attack signals dwindling international support for Israel.
The Real Threat to Israel
The ICC’s controversial ruling, combined with decreasing international support, poses a significant threat to Israel and its American ally. As global opinions shift and tensions rise, the stability and security of Israel remain in a precarious position.
The decision by Amal Clooney to advise the ICC has ignited a complex web of political and international ramifications. As the world watches, the future of Israel’s relations with its allies, especially the United States, hangs in the balance.
