KULIYYAH OF ISLAMIC REVEALED KNOWLEDGE AND HUMAN SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE AND MADANI STUDIES

PSCI 2304
INTERNATIONAL RELATION
SEMESTER 2, 2024/2025
SECTION 1

TITLE: THE ROLE OF UNITED NATION IN ADDRESSING CONFLICT : THE CASE

STUDY OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE

PREPARED BY:

NAME MATRIC NUMBER

NURUL IFFAH IZZATI BINTI ZAINON 2114846

SITI NUR MAIZURAH BINTI RAHMAN 2318600

SITI ZURAIDA BINTI MOHD YUSOFF 2413078

INSTRUCTOR
DR. BENDEBKA RAMZI

SUBMISSION DATE
9th JUNE 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND................................................................................................ 3
3.0 International Law and International Relations..........................................................................4
4.0 REALISM AND THE DOUBLE STANDARD............................................................................6
4.1 Realism in International Relations..................................................................................... 6
4.2 Application of Realism in the Israel-Palestine Conflict.......................................................6
4.3 Veto Power of U.S. and Double Standard........................................................................ 7
5.0 THE INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE........................................................................ 8
6.0 Mitigation and Humanitarian Effort.......................................................................................... 8
7.0 CONCLUSION.........................................................................................................................9
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1.0 INTRODUCTION

​ The Israel-Palestine conflict is one of the long-standing and emotionally charged disputes
in modern history. It stems from a complex mix of historical claims, national identities, and
territorial struggles, which have led to repeated outbreaks of violence and deep political divides.
However, some scholars argue that framing the conflict as a balanced struggle between two equal
sides ignores the realities on the ground.

​ Benny Morris, an Israeli historian, reexamined the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict
by using newly released Israeli archives. He challenged earlier stories by revealing that the 1948
Palestinian refugees crisis was caused by a combination of factors, such as Israeli military
actions, fear among Palestinians, and wartime chaos, are not just because Palestinians left on
their own or followed Arab leaders’ orders. While recognizing Israel’s security concerns, Morris
provides a more detailed and balanced account that acknowledges both Israeli responsibility and
the difficult conditions of war. His research has helped promote a deeper understanding of the
conflict’s beginnings, though some critics believe he still defends certain Israeli policies
(Morris,2001).

As a Palestinian historian, Rashid Khalidi (2020) asserts, “what has happened in Palestine
over the past century is not a tragic clash between two people with competing nationalisms, but a
colonial war waged against the indigenous population by a variety of parties.” (p.2) This
interpretation highlights the structural inequalities and historical injustices at the heart of the
conflict. Against this backdrop, the role of the United Nations (UN) becomes especially
significant. From its involvement in the 1947 partition plan to its ongoing diplomatic and
humanitarian efforts, the UN has been a key international actor, but one whose effectiveness and
neutrality have often been questioned. In addition, the study explores how the UN has addressed
the Israel-Palestine conflict, focusing on its political, humanitarian, and peacekeeping roles, and
assessing its impact on justice and long-term peace.

As a result, Rashid Khalidi and Benny Morris offer two influential yet contrasting
perspectives on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Khalidi views the conflict as a century-long settler
colonial project against the Palestinian people, emphasizing the role of external powers and
historical injustice. He argues that Palestinians have faced systematic dispossession and
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resistance under an international system that often fails to protect their rights. In contrast, Benny
Morris, drawing on Israeli archives, presents a more nuanced and war-based explanation. He
acknowledges Israeli responsibility, especially in the 1948 refugee crisis, but also highlights the
chaos of war and Palestinian flight due to multiple causes. While both historians recognize the
suffering and displacement of Palestinians, Khalidi focuses on long-term colonial dynamics,
whereas Morris emphasizes historical complexity and mixed responsibility.

2.0 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

​ ​ The roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict go back to the late 19th and early 20th
Centuries, when both Jewish and Arab nationalist movements began to emerge under the
weakening Ottoman Empire. According to Gelvin (2014),in 1917, the British government issued
the Balfour Declaration, expressing support for the establishment of a “national home for the
Jewish people” in Palestine as a land predominantly inhabited by Arab-Palestinians at the time.
During the British Mandate (1920-1948), increased Jewish immigration, driven by Zionist
aspirations and European anti-Semitism, led to growing tensions and violent clashes between the
Jewish and Arab populations. These tensions deepened following World War II and the
Holocaust, as international sympathy for Jews grew and calls for a Jewish state intensified.

​ In response, the United Nations proposed the 1947 Partition Plan (Resolution 181), which
aimed to divide Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem under
International administration. While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it,
arguing that it unfairly favored the Jewish minority. The subsequent 1948 Arab--Israeli War
resulted in the declaration of the State of Israel and the displacement of over 700,000
Palestinians as a tragedy known as the Nakba or “catastrophe”. Since then, the conflict has been
marked by multiple wars, Palestinian uprisings (Intifadas), and failed peace efforts. The UN has
been involved since the beginning in establishing refugee support through the United Nations
Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), issuing resolutions, and deploying peacekeepers. All
efforts have often been limited by political divisions among member states, especially within the
Security Council.
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​ In a nutshell, the Israel-Palestine conflict emerged from early 20th-century tensions

fueled by colonial interests and opposing nationalist movements. British support for a Jewish
homeland in Palestine and rising Jewish immigration during the Mandate period deepened
divisions with the Arab population. The 1947 UN partition plan aimed to resolve the dispute but
instead triggered war and the displacement of Palestinians. Since then, the conflict has remained
unresolved, and although the United Nations has been involved through peace initiatives and
humanitarian aid, its efforts have often struggled against global political divides.

3.0 INTERNATIONAL LAW AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: A COMPLEX

INTERPLAY

​ The legal structure provided by international law serves as vital for controlling conflicts
and defending human rights. This contains Jus ad Bellum, which establishes the conditions in
which governments may lawfully use force; in general, it forbids aggression and permits
self-defense or authorization from the UN Security Council. International humanitarian law
(IHL), also known as Jus in Bello, governs how to conduct of hostilities are conducted regardless
of the conflict's origins once it has begun. Principles including civilian safety, fairness (making
sure military actions don't inflict undue human harm in comparison to military advantage), and
distinction (making a distinction between combatants and civilians, as well as between military
objectives and civilian objects) are all mandated by IHL.

​ The principle of self-determination, which has been affirmed in numerous international

documents, is a fundamental right of the Palestinian people in the context of the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It affirms their freedom to choose their political status and to pursue
their economic, social, and cultural development. Furthermore, Occupation Law describes the
legal duties of an occupying authority to the civilian population in occupied territory. It is mostly
based on the Fourth Geneva Convention. This framework, which imposes obligations on the
rights, welfare, and protection of the occupied population and forbids actions like the relocation
of the civilian population of the occupying power into the occupied territory (i.e., settlements), is
extremely pertinent to Israeli actions in the Palestinian territories.
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Last but not least, human rights law, which addresses a wide range of rights, such as the
right to life, liberty, personal security, and freedom from discrimination, is directly applicable to
both Israelis and Palestinians through several international treaties. It imposes obligations on
states to uphold, defend, and fulfill these rights for every person under their effective control or
jurisdiction.

International Relations as a Modifier: Although international law establishes precise

rules, the dynamics of international relations greatly influence how these rules are applied and
enforced. How rigidly international law is applied and whether infractions are addressed are
frequently determined by power politics. Due to the division of power among states, strong
countries occasionally can influence others to respect or violate international legal standards,
especially when their strategic interests are involved. This results in circumstances where
rigorous adherence to international legal rules may not always take precedence over the national
interest. Because there is no centralized global authority with coercive capabilities, states may
claim that particular actions, even if they appear to be against international law, are essential for
their security or national survival, making enforcement difficult.

Therefore, these underlying power dynamics frequently impact diplomacy and talks more
than pure legal concepts, even if they are essential for settling disputes and are supported by
organizations like the UN. Instead of rigorously adhering to what international law might deem
to be the "just" or "legal" option, the results of peace processes and diplomatic attempts typically
reflect the relative strengths and leverage of the parties involved and their international sponsors.
This demonstrates the fundamental conflict that exists between the normative principles of
international law and the actual conduct of states in a world where power disparities and
sovereign interests rule.
​
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4.0 REALISM AND THE DOUBLE STANDARD

4.1 Realism in International Relations

Among many theories in international relations, realism seems to be the most prominent.
Realists emphasise the importance of power to a state, so from their standpoint, a state with
strong military power and backing can ensure its survival and self-interest is properly achieved.
Realism views international relations as a state of anarchy, which means there is no sovereignty
or supreme authority. In that sense, conflict is bound to happen, and a state must be self-reliant
and regard other states as enemies. “The end justifies the means,” as quoted by Niccolo
Machiavelli, emphasises that the outcome or end goal is important, and as long as we can
achieve the intended outcome, we must use any means necessary, excluding moral principles
from the framework. Logically speaking, the realists view international relations as the same as a
massive jungle, and the state must use “the law of the jungle” to survive. The actors of
international relations can use various means to avoid being prey to the strong. In conclusion,
from a realist perspective, international relations is a place where power becomes the most
important in the survival of the fittest.

4.2 Application of Realism in the Israel-Palestine Conflict

​ Previously, we discussed how realists emphasised the significance of power in realism.

Therefore, the military capacity of a state needs to be increased in order to prevent threats from
other states. It is apparent from the alliance between the United States of America and Israel.
Their alliance is based on aligned interests with each other, especially political interests and there
is no harm done from the alliance from their standpoint; instead, they are benefiting each other.
The U.S. becomes the biggest contributor to Israel’s military unit in the Israel-Palestine conflict
for years. According to a press statement by the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Secretary of
State Marco Rubio announced to have signed a declaration to use emergency authorities to
expedite the delivery of approximately $4 billion in military assistance to Israel. The Trump
Administration also approved nearly $12 billion in major Foreign Military Sales (FMS) sales to
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Israel (U.S. Department of State, 2025). The U.S. Government under President Donald Trump
uses their available resources to support Israel for them to counter threats from Hamas.

Furthermore, there are so many aids provided by the United States of America to Israel in
military assistance. One of them is the deployment of the THAAD system for Israel defense
formation. The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system is a system designed to
neutralise against all ballistic missile threats from short range to intermediate range. This system
will intercept each target covering both inside and outside the atmosphere. Moreover, the
THAAD system provides extra protection to the existing protective systems which are the Iron
Dome, David’s Sling, Arrow 2 and Arrow 3. The U.S. provided emergency aids and wartime
procurement approximately $40.7 billion in total for the year of 2024 only. In January 2025, the
U.S. Department of State notified Congress about a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel
(American Jewish Committee, 2025). All of these military aids show us that the U.S. provides
unequivocal support for Israel in the past years. Their alliance is based on mutual benefits and
from Israel's point of view, it has the legitimate right to defend itself from Hamas threats and
attacks.

4.3 Veto Power of U.S. and Double Standard

The United States of America has been the dominant power, the highest hierarchy of the
upper echelon in international relations. The U.S. holds the veto power as one of the permanent
members of the United Nations. This veto power can turn the table against the majority votes in
decision-making. Therefore, no other states can win against U.S. decisions once the vote is cast
against them. In the Israel-Palestine conflict, the UN Security Council fails to adopt a draft
resolution to call for immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza due to the negative vote of the
U.S. against majority votes of 14 in favour for ceasefire. The reason why the United States of
America voted against the draft resolution is because they are afraid that the Hamas’ survivors
will spark the embers of war once again. This action proved that the U.S. had the mindset of a
realist. This issue ended up being the achilles heels of the United Nations, undermining their
credibility and contrasting the goal of the UN Charter which are peace, justice and equality. The
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United Nations failed to solve the never-ending conflict of Israel and Palestine. As a result, the
Israel-Palestine conflict is prolonged until now with no signs of stopping.

​ Next, the double standard can be perceived through the actions of the United Nations
with other conflicts, such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Contrary to the never-ending conflict of
Israel-Palestine, the Ukraine-Russia conflict has been addressed a few times. The proactive
solutions by the United Nations is the result of the United States of America refrain from
intervening with the conflict. The reason why the U.S. did not intervene with the Ukraine-Russia
conflict is that there are no national security interests. The U.S. saw no benefits in helping
Ukraine in the conflict and they also do not want to risk sparking a “world war” by clashing the
American and Russian troops in Ukraine. In addition, the United States of America does not see
Russia as a terrorist group as it see Hamas in the Israel-Palestine conflict. We can see that the
U.S. government only takes initiative when it is beneficial for them. The United Nations on the
contrary is being seen as a tool of Western countries and at the same time decreasing their
credibility and trust in international law.

5.0 THE INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE

​ True to its name, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has two main functions, which
are giving advisory opinions on legal questions authorised by the UN organ and also settling
disputes following international law (United Nations, n.d). In simple terms, the ICJ functions
similarly to a federal court in a country but on a larger stage, which is international relations and
its actors. In the case of the Israel-Palestine conflict, the ICJ has already issued three advisory
opinions following the request of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

The court rendered its first advisory opinion on Israeli actions in the West Bank in 2004
after Israel extended its security fence project beyond the armistice line (The Lawfare Institute,
2024). The Israelis breached the 1949 Armistice Agreements which stated that the armistice line
also known as the “Green Line” is a cease-fire line. The next ruling came 20 years later, earlier in
2024 when the court issued provisional measures initiated by South Africa related to Israel’s
military operation in Gaza. Then, on July 19th in the same year, the court issued an advisory
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opinion responding to UNGA’s request on the implications stemming from Israel's long-term
occupation regime (The Lawfare Institute, 2024).

Contrary to the first ruling in 2004, there was no enforcement done, and Israel continued
the wall construction, disregarding the court’s advice. It confirmed that the ICJ’s authority and
international law are limited by politics and have restriction for what they can do without
political will. Even a legal institution like the ICJ cannot escape the realist dynamics. The actions
of the United States of America and its allies, ignoring the law once again, proved that having
power can override the law. The U.S., as the dominant power in international relations, is
shielding Israel shows us how dirty politics can be, and having so much power can diminish
moral principles.

6.0 MITIGATION AND HUMANITARIAN EFFORT

​ Although several UN bodies and agencies play a crucial role in helping to minimize the
effects of wars and provide humanitarian assistance, they often operate under severe restrictions.
For example, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near
East, or UNRWA, plays a critical role in offering millions of Palestinian refugees basic services,
including health, education, and humanitarian aid. Despite its vital work, UNRWA regularly
faces significant obstacles, including ongoing financial shortfalls and heated political disputes,
particularly regarding its purpose and activities in a highly unstable region.

​ Comparably, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) plays a
crucial role in keeping an eye on human rights abuses around the world and pressing for state
and non-state actors to be held accountable. UN Special Rapporteurs and Committees, impartial
specialists that look into and report on particular human rights situations, bringing violations to
light and suggesting remedies, support their work. However, the absence of direct authority to
enforce is an essential disadvantage for all of these organizations. Their main sources of
influence are moral persuasion, reporting, and advocacy. Their ability to completely address and
resolve the complex issues they are required to deal with can be affected by political reasons, and
cooperation from all members.
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7.0 CONCLUSION
​ The United Nation has maintained a prominent yet controversial presence in the Israel
Palestine conflict since its inception. Although the organization was initially involved in partition
plans and humanitarian aid, its efforts to mediate and resolve the conflict have frequently
encountered structural and political obstacles. Resolutions passed by the UN General Assembly
and Security Council have affirmed the rights of both parties and condemned various violations
of international [Link], their enforcement remains weak due to geopolitical divisions,
particularly among permanent members of the Security Council regarding Baylis et al, (2020).

​ According to Miller (2018), despite repeated calls for ceasefires, peace talks, and the
two-state solution, progress has been stymied by inconsistent international cooperation and
selective support from influential member [Link] use of veto power, especially by the United
States has often shielded Israel from accountability, undermining the credibility of UN decisions
in the eyes of many observers.

​ Nonetheless, the UN still continues to provide a vital platform for dialogue, legal
frameworks and also humanitarian assistance though its agencies like UNRWA and OCHA.
These contributions are essential in sustaining civilian lives and upholding the basic principles of
international law amid hostilities

Moreover, to improve its effectiveness, the UN must undergo reforms that reduce
political bias and enhance its ability to implement resolutions equitably. Without such change, its
role risks remaining symbolic rather than transformative. A more unified and consistent
approach among member states is necessary to empower the UN to fulfill its mandate of
maintaining international peace and security in one of the world’s most protracted conflicts.
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REFERENCES

1.​ Gelvin, J. L. (2014). The Israel-Palestine Conflict: One Hundred Years of War (3rd ed.).

Cambridge University Press.

A balanced overview of the conflict, good for historical and UN-related discussions.

2.​ Khalidi, R. (2020). The hundred years' war on Palestine: A history of settler colonialism

and resistance, 1917–2017. Metropolitan Books.

3.​ Morris, B. (2001). Righteous Victims: A History of the Zionist-Arab Conflict, 1881–2001.

Vintage Books.

4.​ United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). (n.d.). Who We Are.

[Link]

Details the UN's humanitarian role for Palestinian refugees since 1949.

Baylis, J., Smith, S., & Owens, P. (2020). The Globalization of World Politics: An

Introduction to International Relations (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Miller, R. (2018). United Nations and the Middle East: A Critical Overview. Routledge.

Smith, C. D. (2021). Palestine and the Arab-Israeli Conflict: A History with Documents

(10th ed.). Bedford/St. Martin's.

United Nations. (2023). United Nations and the Question of Palestine. Retrieved from

[Link]

BBC News. (2024, October 16). What are Israel’s Iron Dome, David’s Sling, Arrow and Thaad

missile defences? [Link]

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Usher, B. B. P. (2022, February 25). Ukraine conflict: Why Biden won’t send troops to Ukraine.

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