A coalition of nations convened in Bogotá, Colombia to seek accountability for actions taken by Israel in Gaza, focusing on measures aimed at curbing military support for the country. The culmination of this two-day summit, which concluded on Wednesday, brought together representatives from over two dozen countries, collectively agreeing on six strategic actions to mitigate what they deemed an ongoing crisis in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Countries such as Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Indonesia, Iraq, Libya, Malaysia, Namibia, Nicaragua, Oman, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa participated in the gathering. As articulated by Varsha Gandikota-Nellutla, the executive secretary of The Hague Group, the organizing body of the summit, this event symbolizes a shift toward proactive measures from “governments of conscience” rather than passive appeals to power.
Established in January, The Hague Group aims to unite countries from the Global South, a term that encompasses a broad array of developing economies, to advocate for Palestinian rights and press Israel to cease its military actions in Gaza. The proposed measures include an arms embargo against Israel, a ban on vessels transporting weaponry to the nation, and a strategic review of public contracts that may support companies involved in the Israeli occupation. Additionally, delegates called for the endorsement of “universal jurisdiction mandates,” which would empower nations and international bodies to pursue accountability for severe international crimes, irrespective of their location.
Despite reservations expressed about the ability of smaller economies to influence Israel, especially in light of significant financial support from the United States, the Hague Group remains optimistic. They have set a deadline of September 20 for additional countries to join their initiative, timed to coincide with the opening of the United Nations General Assembly. This deadline indicates a concerted effort to draw in global participation and momentum.
Furthermore, speakers at the summit highlighted the significance of these measures as part of a broader campaign to hold Israel accountable for actions deemed outside international law. Notably, Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, remarked on the awakening of global consciousness around Palestine, emphasizing the divisive line drawn between those who stand against perceived injustices and those who may turn a blind eye.
The summit epitomizes the growing fervor among non-Western nations advocating for the enforcement of international law in Gaza. Countries like South Africa and Colombia have taken leading roles in the call for accountability; South Africa is actively pursuing a case at the International Court of Justice, while Colombia has officially severed diplomatic ties with Israel due to its military actions. Colombian President Gustavo Petro underscored the significance of the gathering, stating, “We came to Bogota to make history. And we did.”
This coalition’s actions reflect a rising tide of international concern for Palestine and an ambition to foster a more just global order.
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