In response to a recent request by South Africa, the World Court issued a new order that requires Israel to ensure the delivery of aid to the Palestinians in Gaza. The order was given after more than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes and attacks since December, following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel.
In December, South Africa accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, which led to nearly 1,200 deaths and over 240 people taken hostage. Since then, the situation has worsened with the Palestinian health ministry reporting that over 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes and attacks.
The ICJ issued interim measures stating that Israel must provide aid to the Palestinians in Gaza as their living conditions continue to deteriorate. This assistance includes basic services such as food, water, electricity, fuel, shelter, clothing, hygiene, sanitation and medical supplies. Additionally, Israel must work closely with the United Nations to ensure that this assistance is delivered quickly and effectively.
Furthermore, the order requires Israel to open more land crossings and keep them open as long as necessary to facilitate the delivery of aid. Israel must also guarantee that its military does not violate the rights of Palestinians in Gaza as a protected group under the Genocide Convention. This includes preventing the delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid.
The ICJ stressed that Israel must submit a report on all measures taken within one month so that they can be reviewed and monitored by other member states. The UN spokesman reiterated that all member states should abide by the decisions made by the ICJ as it acts independently. The ICJ was established as the principal judicial organ of the UN in accordance with the UN Charter.
The decision comes after an intense debate among members of South Africa’s ruling party ANC who were divided on whether or not to take legal action against Israel.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said he had received support from African Union leaders for his stance against Israel.
“We will continue our efforts towards finding a lasting peace solution,” Ramaphosa said during a press conference at his office in Pretoria.