Jerusalem: Israeli historian and professor Ilan Pappe has linked the aggressive policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the ongoing case against him at the International Criminal Court (ICC), suggesting that Netanyahu aims to delay the proceedings by escalating regional conflicts.
According to Anadolu Agency, Pappe asserted that Netanyahu is attempting to deflect attention from the ICC case as it reaches a critical stage. He explained that Netanyahu is trying to postpone the trial, citing ongoing conflicts in Gaza and with Iran as reasons to delay proceedings for potentially two or three years.
Pappe also highlighted the influence of Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners, particularly messianic Zionists, who are driven by an ideological vision to expand Israeli control beyond current borders. These allies see this as a unique opportunity to reshape the region according to their interpretation of ancient texts.
The historian warned of the international response, noting that while the US stance remains largely unchanged, some European leaders have started to suggest sanctions against Israel. However, he pointed out that such decisions require unanimity within the European Union, which faces opposition from Israel's allies like the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Estonia.
Pappe criticized the broader silence or complicity of European governments, attributing it partly to the lasting impact of the Holocaust and the self-interest of current European politicians. He argued that political leaders prioritize re-election over visionary leadership and tend to support Israel if it benefits their political prospects.
Addressing accusations of rising antisemitism, Pappe described the narrative as misleading. He noted that while genuine antisemitism exists, criticism of Israel's actions should not be conflated with antisemitism. He emphasized that many of those involved in solidarity movements with Palestinians are Jewish, challenging the notion that opposition to Israeli policies is inherently antisemitic.
Pappe concluded that solidarity with Palestinians is not antisemitic, underscoring the involvement of Jewish individuals in protesting Israeli actions in Gaza. He argued that the rise in anti-Israel sentiment is justified and urged caution in accepting definitions of antisemitism that conflate criticism of Israel with hatred of Jews.