ICJ rebukes Israel over its Gaza aid restrictions during war

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations’ principal judicial body, issued a significant advisory opinion, criticizing Israel for blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza during the ongoing conflict. The court emphasized that harming civilians is never justified and must be treated with the greatest concern, as such actions directly endanger lives.

The ICJ concluded that Israel, as an occupying power, is legally required to cooperate with UN agencies, particularly the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), to ensure the unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance in Gaza. It dismissed Israel’s claims that UNRWA was complicit in supporting Hamas, stating that such allegations were unsubstantiated and did not justify the restrictions imposed on the agency’s operations. The court also condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare, highlighting that parts of Gaza were experiencing famine conditions due to the blockade and restrictions on aid, and urged Israel to grant the International Committee of the Red Cross access to Palestinian prisoners in line with international humanitarian law.

Israel rejected the ICJ’s advisory opinion, labeling it politically motivated. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the country “fully upholds its obligations under international law” but would not cooperate with organizations allegedly involved in terrorist activities. Israel has previously accused UNRWA of harboring Hamas sympathizers, a claim the ICJ found inadequately substantiated.

International reactions have been mixed. The U.S. State Department criticized the ICJ’s opinion as politically biased and defended Israel’s actions, reiterating concerns over UNRWA’s alleged Hamas affiliations. Norway expressed support for the ICJ’s findings and indicated it would pursue a UN General Assembly resolution based on the advisory opinion. The World Health Organization highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged immediate international intervention.

While ICJ advisory opinions are non-binding, they carry significant moral and legal weight. The court’s findings underscore the international community’s expectation that Israel adhere to its obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the protection and welfare of civilians in occupied territories. Blocking aid and harming civilians is unacceptable, and the situation in Gaza must be addressed with the highest urgency.