Navigating Orientalism in International Law: Weaponization of Linguistic Bias to Justify the Use of Force in Israel-Palestine

Abstract

This paper explores the intersection of Orientalism and international law, focusing on how linguistic bias is weaponized to justify the use of force in the Israel-Palestine conflict. By analyzing the deployment of Orientalist tropes and language in legal and political discourse, the study reveals how entrenched stereotypes about the East serve to legitimize asymmetrical power dynamics and military interventions. It scrutinizes official statements made by the Israeli government to demonstrate the perpetuation of a narrative that frames Palestinian resistance as terrorism while portraying Israeli actions as self-defense. This linguistic framing not only dehumanizes Palestinians but also distorts the principles of international law, undermining its role in achieving a just and equitable resolution. Through this examination, the paper calls for a critical reevaluation of the language used in international law to foster a more balanced and fair approach to conflict resolution.