Examining Counter-Colonial Criminology’s Impact on the Israel-Hamas War: An Analysis of the Legal Framework of International Humanitarian Law

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

This research paper delves into the Israel-Hamas conflict, employing a Counter-Colonial
framework to examine the historical nuances and the relationship between the current conflict
in Israel and Palestine. On October 7th, 2023, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on
Israel, not only murdering civilians but also sexually assaulting women. In response to the
gruesome attack, Israel launched a series of indiscriminate bombardments and attacks on both
Hamas militants and innocent civilians. The surprise attack and, therefore, the apparent
failure of the IDF’s highly praised intelligence systems have shaken the world to its core.

The primary objective of this paper is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the war through the lens of international humanitarian - and war law. International humanitarian law offers a structured legal framework for evaluating the actions and responsibilities of both Hamas and Israel. The theoretical foundations of counter-colonial criminology echo the historical injustices that have shaped the trajectory of this conflict. The interplay encompassing history, geopolitical dynamics, diplomacy, and humanitarian imperatives
underscores the multifaceted nature of the Israel-Hamas War. This paper presents a comprehensive understanding of the dynamically evolving reality, the international legal perspective, and the role played by global institutions in elucidating the unfolding events in Israel Palestine.

Author

• Marbel Diderik, University of Amsterdam