ICJ Slaps New Provisional Measures on Israel over Gaza Famine Crisis as South Africa Submits Second Request

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued new provisional measures against Israel on Thursday after South Africa presented a second request to the court on March 6 regarding the famine situation in the Gaza Strip. In its brief, South Africa asked the ICJ for new precautionary measures or a modification of previous ones in order to ensure the safety of 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza, including over one million children. The court has instructed Israel to adopt all necessary and effective measures, in coordination with the United Nations, to ensure the unhindered and large-scale supply of humanitarian aid to the Gaza population. This includes food, water, electricity, fuel, shelter, clothing, hygiene and sanitation, as well as medical supplies and care. Additionally, the court has emphasized the need to increase the capacity and number of land crossings for aid delivery and to keep them open for as long as necessary.

Israel has been urged to ensure that its Armed Forces do not commit acts that could violate the rights of Palestinians in Gaza, including any actions that hinder the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Israel is required to submit a report within one month to report on compliance with these additional measures. The South African Government has celebrated the decision and emphasized the significance of the ICJ’s order. They believe that the changing circumstances in Gaza justify the implementation of new strategies to address the humanitarian crisis. South Africa has also highlighted