By Omar Silva

Editor: National Perspective Bz - Digital 2025

www.nationalperspectivebz.com

 Belize City: Wednesday 8th January 2025

As Belize awaits the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on Guatemala’s unfounded territorial claim, a disturbing global trend looms ominously over our sovereignty. Recent developments on the international stage suggest that the rule of law, once the bedrock of global stability, is increasingly being disregarded by powerful nations. This troubling dynamic casts a shadow over Belize’s reliance on international mechanisms to safeguard its territorial integrity.

The Erosion of International Law

The United States and Israel have openly flouted international institutions, particularly the ICJ and the International Criminal Court (ICC). Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 45,000 deaths of Palestinian men, women, and children, stand accused of genocide. Yet, neither Israel nor its staunch ally, the United States, show regard for international rulings or accountability. The United Nations, the ICJ, and other global bodies have been sidelined in favor of unilateral actions that undermine global norms.

As U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office, his administration’s rhetoric of territorial threats against Canada, Panama, and even an island off Greenland reinforces this dangerous precedent. Guatemala, keenly observing these developments, may feel emboldened to ignore an ICJ ruling unfavorable to its claims over Belizean territory. Belize must prepare for this possibility.

Guatemala’s Aggression: A Persistent Threat

Guatemala’s actions in Belizean waters and along the Sarstoon River have escalated alarmingly. Guatemalan gunboats routinely intimidate Belizean citizens, while illegal fishing in southern waters goes unchecked. These provocations demonstrate not only a disregard for Belize’s sovereignty but also a “craze-like” mindset that mirrors the aggressive posturing of more powerful nations.

The brazenness of Guatemala’s actions signals a willingness to test Belize’s resolve and the international community’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. Belizeans should not dismiss these incidents as isolated acts of aggression but as part of a calculated strategy to challenge our territorial integrity.

The U.S. Factor: Friend or Foe?

The United States’ historical role in the region complicates Belize’s situation. While the U.S. has often been a valuable partner, its support for Guatemala, both overt and covert, cannot be ignored. Trump’s hawkish stance and his administration’s disdain for international law raise concerns about where U.S. allegiances may lie.

In an era where the U.S. actively undermines the ICJ’s authority, Belize cannot afford to rely solely on American goodwill. Instead, we must build alliances within CARICOM, SICA, and the Commonwealth to counterbalance any U.S. indifference or bias toward Guatemala.

The ICJ: A Crucial but Fragile Hope

Belize’s case before the ICJ is strong, backed by treaties and decades of international recognition. However, the ICJ lacks enforcement power. Its rulings depend on the willingness of nations to comply. If Guatemala, emboldened by the global disregard for international law, chooses to defy an unfavorable ruling, Belize will face an uphill battle to enforce its territorial rights.

A Call to Action: Defend Sovereignty and Integrity

Belize’s response must be resolute:

Strengthen National Security:

Belize must increase its military presence in the Sarstoon River and southern waters to deter further Guatemalan incursions. Diplomacy alone cannot safeguard our borders.

Build Regional Alliances:

By solidifying partnerships with CARICOM, SICA, and the Commonwealth, Belize can rally collective support for its sovereignty and ICJ process.

Engage in Public Diplomacy:

Belize must lead an international campaign to expose Guatemala’s aggression and advocate for the rule of law. This includes engaging the United Nations and other global platforms to highlight the legitimacy of Belize’s borders.

Prepare for Post-ICJ Challenges:

Belize must anticipate and plan for scenarios where Guatemala defies the ICJ ruling. This includes exploring economic and diplomatic countermeasures.

Love for Country and Sovereignty

Belizeans, the stakes have never been higher. Guatemala’s provocations are not just attacks on our territory but on our identity and independence. We cannot allow external threats or the erosion of international law to undermine the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom.

This is a call to arms—not with weapons but with unwavering patriotism, unity, and vigilance. Let us stand firm in our love for Belize and our commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty for generations to come. The world may be out of order, but Belize must remain steadfast, a beacon of resilience and integrity in these turbulent times.