• A coalition of 12 countries agreed to six measures to hold Israel accountable at a summit in Bogota.
• Measures include barring arms transfers to Israel and reviewing public contracts linked to the occupation.
• The summit highlights a shift in international diplomacy focusing on accountability for alleged war crimes.

A coalition of 12 countries gathered in Bogota, Colombia, has announced several measures aimed at holding Israel accountable for its military actions in Gaza. This declaration was made during a two-day summit organized by the Hague Group, which seeks to address what they describe as a "climate of impunity" that has enabled violations of international law. Colombian President Gustavo Petro referred to the collective effort as making “history,” emphasizing a shift towards concrete action rather than mere discussion, according to Middle East Eye and Al Jazeera.

The summit culminated in agreement on six specific measures, including the prohibition of arms transfers to Israel, banning the docking of vessels that could transport military supplies, and initiating a review of public contracts to sever economic ties that support Israeli actions in Occupied Palestinian Territories. These measures aim to curtail Israel's military capabilities while promoting accountability for alleged abuses, as noted by the involved nations, including Bolivia, Colombia, and South Africa, according to Latin America Reports.

Among the notable speakers was UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who highlighted the urgency for collective action against what she termed as ongoing genocide in Gaza. She stated, “Palestine has changed global consciousness," urging states to take meaningful steps toward justice, which reflects a growing solidarity among non-Western nations in advocating for a fair application of international law, according to Middle East Eye and Al Jazeera.

Despite the ambitious nature of these measures, critics have questioned the effectiveness of such actions in curbing Israel’s military operations, largely due to its significant support from the United States and other Western nations. Analysts suggest that the impact of these smaller economies might be limited, and there may be doubts about whether Israel will change its strategy, given the robust support it receives internationally. This skepticism was noted in reports following the summit, which included comments from security experts on the likely futility of efforts absent major power involvement, as highlighted by Latin America Reports.

The group has set a deadline of September 20, 2025, for additional states to join the measures, coinciding with the UN General Assembly, aiming for a broader coalition to enhance pressure on Israel. This initiative signals a significant moment in international relations regarding the Palestinian issue, as these nations move towards more proactive stances against perceived injustices, according to Al Jazeera and Middle East Eye.