The Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR) of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) held a panel discussion on the geopolitical ramifications of South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in cooperation with the College of Public Policy and the College of Law.
The panel included Susan L. Karamanian, dean of HBKU’s College of Law; H E Androulla Kaminara, distinguished diplomat in residence at Georgetown University in Qatar; Dr. Erin McCandless, distinguished visiting professor of public value at HBKU’s College of Public Policy; and Ambassador of South Africa to Qatar, H E Ghulam Hoosein Asmal.
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The panel discussed the implications of the January 26, 2024, order on provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which mandated that Israel “take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts” of genocide pertaining to the Palestinians in Gaza. The panel was chaired by Dr. Sultan Barakat, Acting Director, GISR. Participants also looked at Israel’s response to the order of interim measures and the consequences of Israel breaking international law going forward, especially in light of the significant number of deaths that have happened since the order was issued.
The panel then discussed the implications of Qatar’s stance and role as a mediator in the conflict, evaluating the value of Qatar’s contributions to ongoing negotiations between all parties. The discussion culminated in a discussion about the significance of the ruling to the global rules-based order, with a focus on issues that policymakers should be aware of going forward.
Dr. Barakat stated: “The ICJ’s ruling on South Africa v. Israel is a critical moment in a pressing issue facing policymakers throughout the Middle East and North Africa. GISR is committed to enhancing the ability of decision makers in Qatar and the Arab world by providing a diversity of thought and understanding through initiatives like this panel discussion.”
