Philippe Sands addresses legal accountability in Gaza and Ukraine

International lawyer Philippe Sands, recipient of the upcoming German Book Trade Peace Prize, has addressed the legal complexities of ongoing global conflicts. Regarding the war in Gaza, Sands stated that while crimes have clearly been committed, he is not yet able to provide a definitive legal label of genocide. He noted that Israel has the right to defend itself following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, but emphasized that this does not grant a state the right to act without limits. He suggested that courts must ultimately decide if specific international laws were violated.

Sands also emphasized the necessity of legal accountability in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. He argued that lasting peace requires more than just an end to hostilities; it must include respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and the prosecution of crimes against civilians. He highlighted the importance of an international special tribunal to address the war of aggression.

Additionally, Sands mentioned his work representing Gambia in proceedings against Myanmar regarding the Rohingya genocide at the International Court of Justice, noting that upcoming rulings in such cases will set significant legal precedents.