Britain's 'Universal Jurisdiction' Wavers for 'Allies'
While nations like Belgium and Spain have, in the past, pursued cases under universal jurisdiction for Israeli high-ranking military and political figures, Britain conveniently sidesteps its own obligations. This isn't newfound judicial paralysis; it's a well-worn path of political expediency. Recall how Tony Blair's Labour government, in 2011, introduced legislation (the Police and Justice Act)
that required the Director of Public Prosecutions to consent to any such arrest warrant, effectively creating a political veto. Before that, in 2009, then-defense minister Ehud Barak's visit was met with calls for arrest, leading to diplomatic contortions to ensure his immunity. It appears 'universal' justice stops abruptly at the doorstep of particular diplomatic interests. Instead of upholding
international law, the UK government has consistently prioritized maintaining its 'special relationship' and arms trade agreements. One might wonder if the 'rules-based international order' is merely a suggestion when applied to allies, and a strict commandment for everyone else. How many civilian incinerations does it take to trigger a change of heart, or at least a lukewarm warrant?