US-Israel Relations in the Context of International Law
The United States has issued a rare public rebuke of Israel, urging the country to cease firing on UN peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon. This incident marks a notable point in US-Israel relations, as Washington’s appeal brings international law into focus. The situation at hand involves Israeli military actions targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, with strikes occurring dangerously close to UNIFIL posts. These actions have led to severe repercussions, including civilian casualties and the destruction of infrastructure, prompting Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to condemn the attacks as “a crime directed at the international community.” The United States' intervention underscores the importance of international law in conflict zones. UN peacekeepers are afforded protection under international conventions, and targeting them constitutes a violation of those protections. The US has traditionally supported Israel’s right to defend itself, but this instance represents