The Fight Against Terrorism, the Common Responsibility of States? A Look at the Israel - Hamas Conflict

Since the September 11 terrorist attack on the US, many states have been fighting terrorism individually in their different countries and with the assistance of other states. For decades now, terrorism has been a disturbing issue to the US and the world at large. This paper seeks to examine the role of states and the International Community as whole in the fight against terrorism especially in the Israel – Hamas conflict. Adopting the doctrinal research method, this paper questions if it is the common responsibility of States to fight terrorism. It argues that, the fight against terrorism should be the common responsibility of states due to the responsibility to protect upon states and the international community as a whole. Findings reveal that states are not united in the fight against terrorism in the Israel – Hamas case and this may send a false message to terrorist groups that their action is encouraged by some states. It therefore concludes that, the fight against terrorism should be the common responsibility of states. This will send a warning signal to terrorist groups and will help curb terrorism.