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The Spanish government has demanded that Israel comply with a ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to immediately halt its bombardment and ground assault on the Gazan city of Rafah. Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares emphasized that the ICJ’s precautionary measures, including a ceasefire and access for humanitarian aid, are legally binding and must be followed.

However, the British government has criticized the ICJ’s order, stating that it could strengthen the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. A UK foreign ministry spokesperson argued that Hamas’s refusal of a hostage deal from Israel could be reinforced by the court’s intervention, potentially hindering peace efforts and a two-state solution.

The ICJ’s ruling came in response to a case brought by South Africa, alleging that Israel’s assault on Gaza amounts to “genocide.” The court ordered Israel to immediately halt its offensive in Rafah, keep open the Rafah crossing for humanitarian aid, and release hostages taken by Hamas fighters during their attack in Israel.

Despite the ICJ’s orders, Israel continued its bombing of Rafah and other parts of Gaza on Saturday. Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, have been vocal critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza, with plans to recognize a Palestinian state from next week. In response, Israel has reprimanded their envoys and announced a ban on Spain’s consulate in Jerusalem from assisting Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

The conflict in Gaza began after Hamas’s attack on October 7, resulting in the deaths of over 1,170 people, mostly civilians. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has claimed the lives of at least 35,857 people in Gaza, predominantly women and children. The situation remains tense as international pressure mounts on Israel to comply with the ICJ’s ruling.