The UN's top court dismissed South Africa's urgent plea for immediate action to safeguard Rafah in Gaza but emphasized Israel's obligation to uphold previous measures in a significant genocide litigation.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) underlined the critical condition in Rafah and the need for prompt implementation of measures decreed on January 26. It reiterated that these measures cover the entirety of Gaza, including Rafah, without the need for new directives.
Israel is reminded of its duty to comply fully with the Genocide Convention and the ICJ's prior ruling, urging prevention of casualties and destruction in Palestine.
The court highlighted UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' concerns over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Rafah, describing it as exacerbating an already dire situation.
Israel, regarding Rafah as a key Hamas stronghold, has pledged to sustain its offensive. The city, hosting more than 50 percent of Gaza's population, mainly comprises displaced individuals fleeing conflict elsewhere in the region.
South Africa had petitioned the ICJ to examine Israel's military actions in Rafah, claiming a breach of previous court orders. The court echoed South Africa's urgency for implementing measures across Gaza, including Rafah.
Israel, however, criticized South Africa's move, labeling it as peculiar and improper. Denying genocide allegations, Israel maintains its focus on targeting Hamas resistance while minimizing civilian harm.
The provisional measures issued earlier were part of South Africa's broader legal challenge against Israel, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention.
The ICJ also urged Hamas to release hostages and called upon the international community to ensure Israel's compliance with its rulings.
Photo: AI-gen
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The International Court of Justice (ICJ) underlined the critical condition in Rafah and the need for prompt implementation of measures decreed on January 26. It reiterated that these measures cover the entirety of Gaza, including Rafah, without the need for new directives.
Israel is reminded of its duty to comply fully with the Genocide Convention and the ICJ's prior ruling, urging prevention of casualties and destruction in Palestine.
The court highlighted UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' concerns over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Rafah, describing it as exacerbating an already dire situation.
Israel, regarding Rafah as a key Hamas stronghold, has pledged to sustain its offensive. The city, hosting more than 50 percent of Gaza's population, mainly comprises displaced individuals fleeing conflict elsewhere in the region.
South Africa had petitioned the ICJ to examine Israel's military actions in Rafah, claiming a breach of previous court orders. The court echoed South Africa's urgency for implementing measures across Gaza, including Rafah.
Israel, however, criticized South Africa's move, labeling it as peculiar and improper. Denying genocide allegations, Israel maintains its focus on targeting Hamas resistance while minimizing civilian harm.
The provisional measures issued earlier were part of South Africa's broader legal challenge against Israel, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention.
The ICJ also urged Hamas to release hostages and called upon the international community to ensure Israel's compliance with its rulings.
The ICJ's decision to dismiss South Africa's urgent plea is seen by some critics as indicative of its limited ability to enforce right decisions and justice on powerful nations, raising questions about the court's effectiveness in addressing significant international disputes.
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