ICJ Orders Israel to Take Measures to Prevent Acts of Genocide in Gaza

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday delivered its ruling on the emergency measures requested by South Africa in its genocide case against the Israeli regime over its war on the Gaza Strip.

News ID: 84474

Date: 31 January 2024 - 12:27

The court said, among others, that Israel must take steps to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

The judges have not ruled on the merits of the genocide allegations, which may take years to decide.

The court said it has jurisdiction to rule in the case.

The ICJ also ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in the Gaza Strip, saying it must report back in one month.

The Israeli regime must prevent and punish incitement to genocide in the Strip, the court said, adding that Israel must allow humanitarian aid into the Strip.

The court has also obliged Israel to take more measures to protect Palestinians but did not order it to end military operations in the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli regime must take immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, the court said.

Judge Donoghue said the ruling creates international legal obligations for Israel.

The South African government hailed what it called a “decisive victory” for the international rule of law.

Thanking the ICJ for its swift ruling, South Africa said it welcomed the provisional measures and said it sincerely hoped Israel would not act to frustrate the application of the court’s orders.

It further said the ruling marked a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people.

It added that South Africa will continue to act within global institutions to protect the rights of the Palestinians in Gaza.

Since October 7, Israel’s military campaign has killed at least 26,083 people and wounded 64,487 others in Gaza.