Gaza: The State of Palestine welcomed the landmark ruling by the International Court of Justice on the obligations of Israel in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations and other international organizations and third states concerning the occupied Palestinian territory.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, the Court concluded that Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip, violating its obligations as an occupying power and a member of the United Nations, as well as its obligation not to impede the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.
The Court also determined that the limited aid Israel has allowed has not alleviated the situation in the Gaza Strip. It recalled that Israel has violated its obligation to respect the prohibition of the use of starvation as a method of war and the forcible transfer and deportation of the Palestinian people, affirming that evacuated Palestinians should be transferred back to their homes.
Further, the Court rejected Israel’s campaign against UNRWA, stating that Israel has not substantiated its allegations. The evidence confirms the impartiality and neutrality of UNRWA, and the Court insisted that UNRWA cannot be replaced. Israel is prohibited from taking actions against the UN, including UNRWA, contrary to its obligations as a UN member. It must respect the inviolability of UN premises, not interfere with them, and facilitate relief schemes by the UN, including UNRWA, for the Palestinian people. Additionally, Israel is obliged to respect the rights of Palestinian detainees and allow them access to ICRC.
The Court reaffirmed that Israel enjoys no sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and is not entitled to make unilateral decisions regarding the presence and activities of the UN, third states, and other organizations in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.
This ruling is seen in the context of ongoing tensions, despite a recent ceasefire. The ruling clarifies that Israel must cease its illegal policies, and states have an obligation to ensure Israel complies with its obligations. Israel must immediately lift the ban on UNRWA and allow international organizations invited by Palestine to operate freely in the occupied territories.
The State of Palestine calls on Israel and the international community to uphold their legal obligations and implement the Court’s ruling. Adhering to these advisory opinions and international law is viewed as essential for ending the suffering of the Palestinian people and achieving peace and security in the region and worldwide.