The Hague, The Netherlands, July 19, 2024 /ChatnewsTV/ — The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a powerful advisory opinion condemning Israel’s prolonged occupation, settlement activities, and annexation attempts in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. The Court’s judgment, delivered on July 19, 2024, follows a request from the United Nations General Assembly, reflecting mounting international concern over the ongoing conflict.
The ICJ’s opinion is unequivocal: Israel’s continued presence and actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory violate international law. The Court highlighted that Israel’s policies and practices, including settlements and legislative measures, have systematically discriminated against Palestinians and infringed upon their rights to self-determination.
Systematic Discrimination
The Court’s examination revealed a broad array of discriminatory legislation and practices by Israel. It stated that the comprehensive restrictions imposed by Israel on Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory constitute systemic discrimination based on race, religion, or ethnic origin. This, the Court found, is in violation of several international conventions, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Right to Self-Determination
The ICJ emphasized the detrimental impact of Israel’s policies on the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. The Court asserted that Israel’s practices have deprived Palestinians of this right over an extended period, undermining their ability to exercise it in the future. “As a consequence of Israel’s policies and practices, which span decades, the Palestinian people have been deprived of its right to self-determination,” the Court stated.
Unlawful Occupation
Addressing the legality of the occupation, the ICJ declared that Israel’s prolonged occupation and settlement activities are illegal under international law. The Court reiterated its position from the 2004 Advisory Opinion on the Legal Consequences of the Construction of a Wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, noting with grave concern that Israel’s settlement policy has continued to expand since then.
International Obligations
The ICJ’s advisory opinion extends its implications to the international community, urging all states and international organizations not to recognize the unlawful situation created by Israel’s actions. The Court called upon the United Nations, particularly the General Assembly and the Security Council, to take decisive actions to end Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Reparations and Immediate Actions
The Court has mandated that Israel cease all new settlement activities immediately and evacuate all settlers from the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Additionally, Israel is required to make reparations for the damage caused to Palestinian individuals and entities as a result of its policies and practices.
