The UN’s highest court has ruled that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal. Israel’s settlement policy in the occupied territories is also in breach of international law. Israel is in fact guilty of annexation, the International Court of Justice in The Hague states in a legal opinion.
The report is not legally binding. However, it is expected to further increase the political pressure on Israel, which has increased significantly in recent times due to Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip.
The ICJ report began before the Gaza war
There, Israel is fighting the Islamist Hamas after the terrorist attack in early October that left hundreds dead. The war has had serious consequences for the civilian population.
The UN General Assembly had tasked the International Court of Justice with clarifying the legal consequences of Israel’s occupation policies, which have been going on for almost six decades. That was long before the Gaza war began. But Western critics of Israel may now also feel emboldened by persuading Israel to withdraw and agree to the creation of a Palestinian state.
Palestinians claim territory for their own state
Israel occupied the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem during the 1967 Six-Day War. The Palestinians claim these areas for their own state. Israel left Gaza again in 2005, but continues to control the land, sea and air borders.
It is the second legal opinion of the Court on the Israeli occupation policy. Twenty years ago, in July 2004, the judges had already declared that the wall built by Israel on the West Bank was contrary to international law and therefore had to be demolished. But Israel did not comply.
The report presented today is separate from other proceedings before the UN court. South Africa sued Israel in 2023, accusing it of genocide over its attacks on the Gaza Strip. Israel denies the allegations.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
