Islamic History Podcast 7-11: The Bosnia War - Bosnia and the UN
Feb 7, 2022
The podcast dives deep into the complex role of the United Nations during the Bosnian War, highlighting its failure to protect civilians amid brutal atrocities. It sheds light on the horrific conditions in concentration camps and the rampant sexual violence that occurred. The conversation also critiques international inaction and the geopolitical dynamics at play, especially focusing on the U.S. arms embargo. The tragic Laszva Valley Campaign and the challenges faced by Muslim Bosniak defenders are explored, painting a chilling picture of the conflict's human toll.
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UNPROFOR’s Limited Protection Role
- The UN Protection Force (UNPROFOR) was mainly tasked with humanitarian aid, not direct combat intervention.
- This limited role hindered its ability to effectively protect civilians during the Bosnian War.
Mackenzie’s Misleading Narrative
- General Louis Mackenzie falsely portrayed all sides as equally responsible for atrocities.
- This narrative obscured the disproportionate violence committed by the Bosnian Serbs.
Sarajevo Shelling and Blame
- Serbs shelled Sarajevo while civilians lined up for bread, killing 16 people.
- Serbian media falsely blamed Bosniaks, a claim General Mackenzie repeated despite journalists' skepticism.