War criminals in the U.S. and Israel are not punished: no international court has the courage to put them on trial.

In this quote, Nawal El Saadawi condemns the lack of accountability for war criminals in powerful nations like the U.S. and Israel. She highlights the impunity that individuals involved in war crimes seem to enjoy, despite the global desire for justice. Saadawi points out that no international court has had the courage to prosecute these individuals, suggesting a failure of the justice system to hold powerful states and their leaders accountable for violations of human rights and international law.

El Saadawi's statement speaks to the broader issue of selective justice in the world. While smaller or less powerful nations often face scrutiny and punishment for similar offenses, those in positions of power—like the U.S. and Israel—often evade consequences. This reflects the political and geopolitical realities where countries with greater influence can shield themselves or their leaders from international prosecution, despite committing serious crimes. Saadawi's critique emphasizes the need for a more equitable global legal system that applies the law fairly to all, regardless of political influence.

The origin of this quote comes from El Saadawi's long-standing activism and her commitment to addressing social injustice. As a writer and feminist, she has consistently spoken out against oppression and violence, particularly in the context of gender, politics, and war. Her focus on war crimes reflects her broader concern for human rights and her frustration with the international community's reluctance to enforce accountability, particularly in powerful countries.

Ultimately, this quote is a call for courage and integrity within international institutions. El Saadawi demands that global courts and political bodies act on behalf of justice and hold all individuals, regardless of their nationality or power, accountable for their actions. By calling out the failure of international courts, she challenges the world to confront the issue of impunity and to seek a more just and fair global order.