ICJ begins ruling on Israel’s Gaza aid obligations
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has started handing down its ruling on Israel’s obligations towards agencies providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza.
ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa opened the public hearing to deliver its “advisory opinion” laying out Israel’s duty to facilitate aid in the coastal enclave.
World Court says Israel must ensure ‘basic needs’ of people in Gaza
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) says Israel must facilitate UN aid efforts in Gaza, including UNRWA’s, and must ensure “basic needs” of Gaza population.
“As an occupying power, Israel is obliged to ensure the basic needs of the local population, including the supplies essential for their survival,” ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa said.
In January, Israel effectively banned UNRWA, the main provider of aid to Gaza, from operating in the territory.
Advisory opinions carry significant legal weight and experts say the case could have broader ramifications for the UN and its missions worldwide.
Israel must not use starvation as method of warfare: ICJ
Court President Iwasawa says Israel cannot use starvation as a method of warfare.
“The court recalls Israel’s obligation not to use starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare,” said Iwasawa.
The UN General Assembly asked the court last year to give an advisory opinion on Israel’s legal obligations after the country effectively banned the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.
