The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to halt its military operations in Rafah, Gaza, citing a dire humanitarian crisis. Israel has rejected the ruling, asserting its actions are in self-defense and in compliance with international law.
ICJ’s Ruling and Israel’s Response
On May 24, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague ordered Israel to “immediately” stop its military operations in Rafah, Gaza, due to the worsening humanitarian crisis. This ruling came in response to an urgent application by South Africa, which argued that previous measures by the court regarding the Gaza conflict were inadequate. The ICJ’s decision was read by Judge Nawaf Salam.
Israel firmly rejected the ruling. The National Security Council and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a joint statement calling the genocide charges “false, outrageous, and morally repugnant.” They emphasized that Israel’s actions were in self-defense following a severe attack on October 7, 2023, and were conducted in compliance with international law and humanitarian principles.
Allegations of Genocide and Legal Actions
South Africa’s application to the ICJ is part of a broader genocide lawsuit filed in December. Previous emergency rulings by the UN had mandated Israel to prevent genocide and facilitate humanitarian aid. Despite these measures, Israel has continued its operations, asserting that it avoids actions that could lead to the destruction of the Palestinian population in Gaza.
International Reactions and Continued Efforts
Hamas welcomed the ICJ’s decision, urging the international community to pressure Israel. Egypt and Jordan also supported the ruling, calling for the UN Security Council to intervene. The Palestinian Authority issued a statement from Ramallah, asserting that the court’s decision underscores Israel’s war crimes.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed Nelson Mandela’s sentiment, stating, “We will not be completely free until the people of Palestine are free.” The ruling was hailed by South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) as a victory for justice and human rights.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated that ICJ decisions are binding and expressed hope that the parties would comply. His spokesman confirmed that the provisional measures would be communicated to the UN Security Council.
Diplomatic Efforts and Ongoing Conflict
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the situation with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire, reopening the Rafah border, and protecting civilians and humanitarian workers in Gaza. Blinken highlighted the urgency of de-escalating the situation in the West Bank as well.
The conflict, which escalated after Hamas gunmen killed approximately 1,200 people in Israel on October 7, has resulted in a devastating Israeli aerial and ground campaign. According to health authorities in Gaza, over 35,000 people have been killed. Israel maintains its objective to completely eliminate Hamas in Gaza.
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