UN's Top Court Declares Israeli Occupation of Palestinian Territories "Illegal"

In a landmark decision that has reverberated around the world, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territories, including the West Bank and East Jerusalem, as "illegal." This ruling, delivered on July 19, 2024, by ICJ President Nawaf Salam, marks a significant development in the international legal and diplomatic landscape regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On Friday, the ICJ issued a non-binding advisory opinion that has far-reaching implications for Israel’s occupation policies. Judge Nawaf Salam, who presided over the case, stated: "The court has found that Israel’s continued presence in the Palestinian Territories is illegal." He added that Israel is obligated to "end the occupation as rapidly as possible."

e ICJ condemned Israel's ongoing expansion of settlements in the occupied territories. It emphasized that Israel must "cease immediately all new settlement activities" and evacuate settlers from these lands.

The ruling also addressed Israel’s construction of new settlements and the maintenance of a barrier between the territories. The court noted that these actions "amount to annexation of large parts" of the occupied land.

The court’s advisory opinion underscores that Israel’s actions are in violation of international law, particularly regarding the treatment and rights of the Palestinian population under occupation.

The advisory opinion was requested by the UN General Assembly in late 2022. The Assembly’s resolution sought a legal assessment of the "consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem." This request followed mounting international concern over the impact of Israel’s occupation on regional stability and human rights.

The ICJ held a week-long session in February 2024 to review submissions from various countries and stakeholders. The hearings saw extensive discussions on the legal and humanitarian implications of the occupation, with many speakers urging an end to what has been described as a 57-year occupation. Concerns were raised about the extreme danger the prolonged occupation poses to Middle East stability and international peace.

Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki and Palestinian Ambassador to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, welcomed the ICJ’s decision. They have called on the international community to support the enforcement of the court’s recommendations and to pressure Israel to comply with the ruling.

As of now, the Israeli government has not issued an official statement on the ICJ ruling. Historically, Israeli officials have been critical of the ICJ's authority and the applicability of its rulings. The Israeli stance on the occupation and settlement activities has been a contentious issue in international diplomacy.

Reactions from other nations and international organizations have varied. Some countries have expressed support for the ICJ’s decision, urging action to implement the court’s recommendations. Others have cautioned that the ruling might further complicate the already complex and sensitive geopolitical situation in the region.

The ICJ’s ruling adds a significant dimension to the ongoing international legal discourse regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Although the advisory opinion is not legally binding, it carries considerable moral and diplomatic weight. This ruling is expected to influence future discussions and negotiations related to the conflict.

In addition, a separate high-profile case brought by South Africa alleges that Israel has committed genocidal acts during its Gaza offensive. This case is currently under review and adds another layer of complexity to the international legal landscape concerning Israel’s actions in the region.

The ICJ’s advisory opinion represents a pivotal moment in the international efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By declaring the occupation illegal and calling for an end to settlement activities, the court has set a significant precedent. The ruling serves as a call to action for the international community to engage more actively in resolving the conflict and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

The coming months will be crucial in determining the impact of the ICJ’s decision. The focus will likely be on how the ruling is implemented and whether it leads to tangible changes on the ground. The international community, including the UN and its member states, will play a critical role in supporting the pursuit of peace and stability in the region.