THE CRISIS OF INTERNATIONAL LAW AND THE FAILURE OF COLLECTIVE SECURITY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Abstract

The aim of this study is to trace both the historical and legal dimensions of the Middle East conflict in order to understand why the region remains in persistent turmoil. Among the multiple underlying causes, the inefficiency of international law and the weaknesses of international institutionalism stand out as the most significant factors. While the international state system is theoretically founded on the principle of sovereign equality, its practical application often contradicts this ideal, both de facto and de jure. This systemic inequality not only results in material disparities among states but also reflects an inherent imbalance within the legal framework upon which the system is built. During the League of Nations (LoN) era, these inefficiencies were inadequately addressed, contributing to the emergence of the Palestinian question. This institutional failure has continued into the United Nations (UN) era, where efforts to implement binding resolutions on the Palestinian issue have been consistently obstructed. In sum, this article examines whether sustainable peace in the Middle East is achievable within such an unequal global order. More specifically, it questions whether strengthening international solidarity could serve as a viable mechanism for overcoming these structural inefficiencies and fostering a more just international system.