Unprecedented: ICJ Declares Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza, Urges Israel to Take Immediate Action

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared on Thursday that a humanitarian crisis is unfolding in the Palestinian territory. In an order published on its website, the ICJ stated that Israel must take immediate action to provide urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The court emphasized that Israel must fulfill its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide by ensuring that basic services and humanitarian assistance are provided to Gaza without delay. To achieve this, the ICJ recommended that aid should be provided by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and keeping them open as long as necessary.

South Africa filed a new request with the ICJ expressing grave concern over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has led to massacres, injuries, and large-scale destruction caused by Israel’s ground military offensive in Rafah. Despite its orders being binding, the ICJ has no means of enforcing them. However, countries around the world continue to provide support through various means to address the growing crisis in Gaza.

The situation in Gaza has resulted in widespread famine among its population, with 100% of inhabitants facing serious food insecurity according to UN warnings. The orders from the ICJ are essential in addressing these urgent humanitarian needs but enforcing them remains a challenge.