The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has made a landmark ruling ordering Israel to halt its military offensive in Rafah, Gaza, citing an “immediate risk” to the Palestinian people. The current president of the court, Judge Nawaf Salam, emphasized the need for Israel to take measures to ensure unimpeded access into the Gaza Strip for inquirers to preserve evidence.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators outside the court celebrated the decision, waving flags and playing music advocating for a free Palestine. The ruling came in response to a request from South Africa, which alleged genocide by Israel in Rafah and urged for immediate cessation of military operations.
Israel, however, has staunchly defended its actions in Gaza as acts of self-defense against Hamas militants. A government spokesman reiterated Israel’s commitment to protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza, despite the ICJ’s ruling.
The assault on Rafah by Israel earlier this month triggered a humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and cutting off vital aid routes. South African legal representatives petitioned the ICJ for emergency measures to safeguard the survival of the Palestinian populace.
While the ICJ lacks enforcement powers, its rulings carry significant weight in international disputes. Previous rulings have called on Israel to prevent genocide and ensure humanitarian aid reaches Gaza. The broader case against Israel by South Africa alleging state-led genocide is yet to be fully addressed by the ICJ.