Today, Explained Wars have rules
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Jun 26, 2025 
Suzy Hansen, a journalist focused on the Middle East and author of Crimes of the Century, discusses the failure of international humanitarian law amid the Gaza conflict. Omer Bartov, a professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies, reflects on shifting views regarding genocide. Together, they delve into the moral and legal complexities surrounding the accusations of war crimes, the role of civilian casualties, and the effectiveness of international accountability amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Origins of Humanitarian Law
- International humanitarian law was created post-World War II to regulate war conduct and prevent atrocities like genocide and war crimes.
- This legal infrastructure aimed to prosecute offenders and prevent war crimes through courts, though imperfect, it was a global standard.
Israel's Actions Challenge War Laws
- Israel has been accused of war crimes, including deprivation of essentials and indiscriminate bombing causing civilian deaths.
- These acts challenge international norms with tolerance for civilian harm far beyond previous limits in warfare.
Legal Actions and Limitations
- ICC issued war crimes warrants for Hamas and Israeli leaders but arrest is unlikely due to political complexities.
- The International Court of Justice found genocide plausible and ordered preventive measures without declaring it outright or calling for a ceasefire.