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Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan stated at the United Nations headquarters that international law cannot be treated as an optional menu where rules apply only when convenient, warning that impunity cannot be tolerated if the global system is to survive. Speaking at The Hague Group Extraordinary Ministerial Meeting in Defence of International Law on Friday, Mohamad emphasized that upholding a rules-based order means no state sits above the law and peoples’ rights remain shielded from political convenience.
Defending a Rules-Based Order Amid Global Crises
Mohamad stated that defending international law is not about choosing sides, but rather about preserving a rules-based order. Headed to New York from Sept 23 to 27, he is scheduled to head Malaysia’s delegation at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. Addressing fellow delegates, he noted that the international legal order currently faces one of its most severe tests. According to the foreign minister, the international community continues to witness extensive human misery, clear violations of international law, and the systematic denial of basic human rights across Gaza and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Despite binding court rulings, United Nations resolutions, and clear legal obligations, Mohamad said the Zionist regime continues its atrocities with impunity. He stressed that these violations and the breakdown in international norms cannot be normalized, adding that the credibility of international law relies on collective willingness to uphold and enforce established rules.
Palestine as a Litmus Test for Global Accountability
The question of Palestine remains a litmus test for the international community’s commitment to the rule of law, Mohamad said. He framed the issue around a fundamental premise: whether international law applies universally to all nations or yields to the whims of states believing that might makes right. The UNGA subsequently echoed a July 2024 Advisory Opinion from the International Court of Justice, which left no ambiguity concerning the legal duties of states regarding Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Did you know?
The Hague Group was established in The Hague, Netherlands, on Jan 31, 2025, to bring together Global South countries to coordinate diplomatic and legal efforts aimed at upholding international law and addressing accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Enforcing Existing Frameworks Through The Hague Group
Mohamad noted that there is no need to invent new legal frameworks, but rather to enforce those already in place. This enforcement is where The Hague Group holds an important role. He pointed out that the coalition’s mission focuses on bolstering joint efforts to protect international law by enhancing collaboration, sharing resources, supporting international judicial authorities, and pinpointing measures that individual governments can implement within their domestic legal structures.
The group’s work must reinforce the UN system and help states deliver on commitments they have already made, Mohamad said. For the Palestinian people, this requires upholding inalienable rights, including the right to self-determination, and supporting the realization of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Moving From Rhetoric to Impactful Actions
Malaysia joined The Hague Group out of a sense of responsibility demanding collective and consistent action grounded in international law, Mohamad said. The group provides a framework to turn obligations into concrete measures and actions that reinforce rather than undermine the multilateral system. Where the system weakens through inaction or political paralysis, countries must work to strengthen its foundation through principled and lawful action.
Mohamad urged members to leverage The Hague Group to transition from verbal condemnation to tangible enforcement, shift from isolated remarks to a unified strategy, and replace mere talk with meaningful deeds. Malaysia stands ready to work with all members in defense of international law, he concluded, urging nations to act together, solidly, urgently, and resolutely to uphold justice and the rule of law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Hague Group?
Formed on Jan 31, 2025, in The Hague, Netherlands, The Hague Group is a coalition of Global South nations that unites diplomatic and legal initiatives to defend international law and ensure accountability concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
What did Malaysia propose at the UN headquarters?
Speaking at The Hague Group Extraordinary Ministerial Meeting, Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan called for the enforcement of existing legal frameworks, improved international coordination, support for international enforcement bodies, and a shift from rhetoric to concrete actions to defend international law and Palestinian rights.
What did the ICJ advisory opinion conclude in July 2024?
The International Court of Justice issued an Advisory Opinion in July 2024 that left no doubt regarding states’ obligations concerning Israel’s illegal presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
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