UN top court urges Israel to prevent genocidal acts, facilitate humanitarian aid in Gaza

On Friday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel must take immediate action to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The court, based in The Hague, stopped short of calling for a ceasefire but expressed concern over the “catastrophic humanitarian situation” in Gaza.

The case was brought to the ICJ by South Africa, accusing Israel of violating the UN Genocide Convention. The court did not determine whether Israel was currently committing genocide but emphasized the need for emergency measures due to the serious risk of the humanitarian situation deteriorating further.

Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor, speaking outside the Peace Palace in The Hague, stated that the measures effectively amounted to a call for a ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the charges against Israel, calling them “false” and “outrageous.”

The ICJ specifically urged Israel to take “immediate and effective measures” to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

Israel’s argument of acting in self-defense after Hamas attacks in October 7 was deemed insufficient to protect Palestinian rights, according to the court’s ruling.

Despite the legally binding nature of the ICJ’s decisions, there is no enforcement mechanism, raising questions about whether Israel will comply. Netanyahu has hinted at non-compliance, asserting that “no one will stop us,” even in the face of a verdict from The Hague.

While the symbolic impact of the ruling is significant, experts believe there could be tangible consequences. International law expert Juliette McIntyre stated that the ruling may make it harder for other states to continue supporting Israel, potentially leading to the withdrawal of military or other forms of support.

The court also emphasized the preservation of evidence related to the wider case on whether genocide is occurring. Israel is required to report back within one month on the measures it is taking to conform to the ICJ orders.

Outside the court, protesters from both sides gathered, expressing contrasting views on the situation.

The outcome of this decision is expected to have a lasting impact on the ongoing conflict in the region.