🇸🇦 OIC Considers Labeling Israel Defense Forces as Terrorist Organization; Dual Citizens Face Potential Interpol Red Notices

Last Updated on July 20, 2024

In a recent development, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is contemplating the possibility of designating the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as a terrorist organization. The proposal includes the issuance of Interpol Red Notices for individual soldiers and the potential trial of dual citizens serving in the IDF in OIC Sharia courts.

The idea was raised during discussions at both the Arab League and an OIC meeting held in Riyadh last month, where member countries expressed concerns over the recent events in the Gaza Strip. The proposal gained traction in the aftermath of Israel’s bombing of Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of over 10,000 Palestinian children.

Countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia within the OIC have voiced dissatisfaction with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for allegedly displaying bias. They argue that while the ICC previously issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, it has been reluctant to issue a similar warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in connection with war crimes.

The OIC’s possible consideration of labeling the IDF as a terrorist organization marks a significant escalation in tensions between member states and Israel. If implemented, this move could lead to severe consequences for individual soldiers, including the possibility of being subject to Interpol Red Notices, which could result in their arrest and extradition.

Furthermore, dual Israeli citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, and France who serve in the IDF may find themselves facing OIC Sharia courts. This raises questions about the potential diplomatic and legal implications for these individuals and their home countries.

The international community will be closely watching how this situation unfolds, as it has the potential to impact diplomatic relations and ignite debates over the classification of military actions in conflict zones. The OIC’s move reflects a growing sentiment within member states that accountability must be upheld, especially in the face of allegations of war crimes.