ICJ Rules Israel Must Facilitate UN Aid Delivery to Gaza

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a ruling stating that Israel is legally obliged to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip by the United Nations and its agencies. This decision aims to ensure that the basic needs of the Palestinian civilian population are adequately met.

In its advisory opinion, the ICJ also addressed claims made by Israel regarding the neutrality of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The court found that Israel did not provide sufficient evidence to support its assertions that a significant number of UNRWA employees were affiliated with Hamas or other armed groups. UNRWA has firmly rejected these allegations, emphasizing its commitment to neutrality in humanitarian operations.

Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations characterized the ICJ’s opinion on UNRWA as “shameful.” While the ruling is non-binding, it carries considerable moral and diplomatic weight, signaling the international community’s expectations regarding humanitarian access.

Context of the Advisory Opinion

The UN General Assembly requested the ICJ’s opinion in December 2023, focusing on Israel’s legal obligations towards UN agencies and international organizations operating in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. This request followed the passage of Israeli laws that ban activities by UNRWA on Israeli territory and prohibit contact with Israeli officials.

The ICJ was also asked to clarify Israel’s duties concerning the unhindered delivery of essential supplies to Palestinian civilians. Since the onset of its conflict with Hamas, Israel has tightened its blockade on Gaza, severely restricting the entry of food and other aid for the region’s 2.1 million residents.

Before a recent ceasefire agreement, UN-backed experts reported that more than 640,000 people were facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity, with conditions in Gaza City described as an “entirely man-made” famine. In response to these claims, Israel has maintained that it is allowing sufficient food supplies to enter the region, rejecting the famine declaration.

Implications of the Ruling

This ruling from the ICJ emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza, where the situation remains dire. The court’s opinion may influence future diplomatic discussions and humanitarian policies relating to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

As the international community continues to monitor developments, the ICJ’s advisory opinion serves as a reminder of the legal and moral responsibilities that nations have towards civilian populations affected by conflict. The focus now shifts to whether Israel will comply with this ruling and facilitate the necessary aid to alleviate the suffering of those in Gaza.