The verdict by the International Court of Justice, declaring Israel’s continued occupation of Palestinian territories as illegal on account of multiple violations of international law, is indeed welcome news. It is important to note that this ruling predates Israel’s recent extermination campaign against the Palestinians in the wake of the October 7 attacks by Hamas last year. In fact, the verdict came in response to the UNGA’s request in 2020 to the ICJ to put forward its advisory opinion on Israeli actions in Palestinian territories.
Another important aspect of this ruling is that the court described the situation in Palestine as apartheid and held that Israel’s claims of its right to self-defence are baseless. Regarding what happens now, the UN General Assembly has the jurisdiction to decide how to proceed. Although chances are bleak that it will bring any respite to the suffering of Palestinians. Nonetheless, the verdict will add to the growing global pressure on Israel.
Despite this ICJ’s verdict on the Israeli occupation being not legally binding, coupled with the US’ history of vetoing any proposed action against Israel in the UN Security Council, it can help the UNGA rally the world around the suspension of Israel’s rights and privileges in the General Assembly and other global bodies. Furthermore, it will strengthen South Africa’s genocide case against Israel before the ICJ. The most important consequence of this ruling will be increased pressure on Israel’s allies, particularly the US.
Moreover, the ICJ’s verdict on the Israeli occupation is critical in the backdrop of Israel’s massacre of more than 35,000 Palestinians and the destruction of their socioeconomic infrastructure after the events of October 7. The mounting pressure on the Netanyahu regime is highlighted by the new UK government’s declaration that it will not challenge the issuance of arrest warrants of Israeli leaders. It is crucial to bear in mind that while these advancements highlight moral successes for Palestinian victims of Israeli aggression, they will only hold real significance if accompanied by concrete actions taken by the global community to address Israeli conduct.
However, as Israel, buoyed by the staunch support of the US and other Western backers, has consistently disregarded international law and the rulings of the global bodies, it is not just important but imperative for the global community to take concrete measures such as economic sanctions or an arms embargo to compel Israel to halt its genocidal campaign in Gaza. Unless the world stands up to Israel’s illegal and murderous campaign against Palestinians, the Palestinians will continue to lose their lives and homes.
