NOS News•today, 8:33 PM
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has ordered Israel to do whatever is necessary to ensure that basic supplies reach the Palestinian population in Gaza.
According to the ICJ, people in Gaza face deteriorating living conditions. “The court finds that the Palestinians in Gaza are no longer only at risk of famine, but that the famine has now begun,” the judgment said.
Today’s ruling is in addition to the court’s interim judgment in the lawsuit brought by South Africa against Israel. That country accuses Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip.
Keep borders open
In today’s ruling, the court reaffirms the January ruling, but adds that Israel must take action to ensure the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians throughout Gaza. This includes food, water, electricity, medical supplies and medical care.
The International Court of Justice says Israel must therefore open more border crossings with Gaza, increase the capacity of these crossings and keep them open “as long as necessary”. Israel must submit a report within one month of the verdict detailing how it has complied with the ruling.
Unfounded
The International Court of Justice’s order is binding, but there is no way to enforce it. Israel has not yet responded to the ruling.
The country has previously strongly denied that genocide was taking place. Israel says the military campaign in Gaza is about self-defense, following the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7 last year.
