Watch The Law in These Parts

The Law in These Parts is a 2011 documentary film directed by Ra'anan Alexandrowicz that explores the legal system used by Israel to govern the occupied territories in the aftermath of the 1967 Six-Day War. The film is structured as a series of interviews with military judges who served in the West Bank and Gaza Strip over the past four decades. Through their personal anecdotes and reflections, Alexandrowicz paints a picture of a legal system that evolved from ad hoc military orders into a complex set of regulations and precedents, known as the "military law", that govern every aspect of life for Palestinians living under Israeli control.

The judges recount the challenges they faced in trying to balance the demands of military necessity with the rights of the civilian population. They describe the legal innovations they introduced, such as using administrative detention to hold Palestinians without trial or charging them with vague offenses like "incitement" or "unlawful association". However, they also acknowledge the limits of their authority, as they were ultimately subject to the control of the military commander and the Israeli government.

The film also features interviews with Palestinian lawyers and activists who recount their experiences of being detained and prosecuted under the military law. They criticize the system for its arbitrary nature and lack of due process, arguing that it serves as a means of maintaining control over the Palestinian population rather than upholding the rule of law.

Throughout the film, Alexandrowicz uses archival footage and animation to illustrate the complex web of regulations and procedures that constitute the military law. He also includes excerpts from Israeli news broadcasts and political speeches to show how the military law became a key part of Israel's political discourse, with politicians from the left and the right competing to appear tough on security and crime.

The Law in These Parts is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on a little-known aspect of the Israel-Palestine conflict. By providing a nuanced look at the legal system used to govern the occupied territories, the film challenges viewers to consider the broader implications of military occupation and the limits of the rule of law in a conflict zone.

Overall, The Law in These Parts is a must-watch for anyone interested in the Israel-Palestine conflict or the role of law in maintaining oppressive power structures.