eHalal Paris
🇫🇷 France’s FM Sparks Global Concerns by Muslims with Controversial Stance on ICJ Decision Regarding Israel
In a shocking development that has reverberated across the global Muslim community, Stéphane Séjourné, France’s newly appointed minister of foreign affairs, has declared that France would not support a decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) if it rules against Israel on Palestine. Séjourné argued that accusing Israel of genocide would be “crossing a moral threshold” and “exploiting the notion of genocide for political purposes.”
Séjourné’s statement has drawn widespread criticism, with many questioning the consistency of France’s position on using the notion of genocide for political purposes. Critics point out that less than a year ago, the French parliament, including President Macron’s party, voted to recognize the Holodomor in Ukraine as “genocide.” Similarly, the year before, they voted, again including Macron’s party, to acknowledge the so-called “Uyghur genocide,” actions perceived by some as politically motivated.
This controversy takes a unique turn as it involves an official ruling by the ICJ, of which France is a founding member. If the ICJ were to rule that Israel is committing genocide, it would be a legal determination based on international law, not a political maneuver. This prompts concerns about France’s commitment to the principles of international law and impartiality in the face of geopolitical considerations.
The situation underscores a broader tension between the “rules-based order” and “international law,” as evidenced by France’s stance. Some argue that this decision signifies France aligning itself with the rules-based order, characterized by double standards, over the sanctity of international law.
Moreover, certain scholars posit that France’s backing of Israel in the context of war crimes in Gaza may stem from a historical perspective, suggesting that the country’s own record of war crimes over the last century, particularly in Africa, Indochina, and North Africa, influences its approach to similar allegations against Israel.