Algeria, who currently heads the UNSC, initiated the meeting with the intention of enforcing the “binding effect” of the ICJ’s pronouncement on the provisional measures imposed on the Israeli occupation. The ICJ, based in The Hague, declared that the Israeli regime must take immediate action to prevent genocidal acts during its aggression on Gaza and facilitate the entry of aid to the blockaded Strip.
According to the Lebanese Al-Aanar TV website, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, emphasized that a ceasefire is necessary for the implementation of these measures. Mansour hinted that the Arab group, represented by Algeria, would push for a ceasefire after the ICJ failed to do so.
The UNSC has faced challenges in reaching consensus on resolutions following the Israeli aggression on Gaza. While in December, it called for aid deliveries to the besieged population of Gaza, there has not been a successful call for a ceasefire due to vetoes. The United States, in particular, has been resistant to calls for a ceasefire despite mounting international pressure, contributing to the increasing death toll in Gaza.
The ICJ’s verdict focuses on the Israeli occupation’s obligation to prevent the commission of genocidal acts in line with the 1948 Genocide Convention. The court acknowledged the plausibility of some rights presented by South Africa in its genocide case against the Israeli war on Gaza. However, the ruling does not specifically address the accusation of genocide, but rather concentrates on the urgent intervention sought by South Africa.
Among the measures requested by South Africa was an immediate halt to the Israeli military operation, which has caused significant destruction in Gaza and resulted in the deaths of over 26,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. The ICJ ordered Israel to prevent genocide acts in Gaza, ensure its forces do not commit genocide, and take action to improve the humanitarian situation.
‘Israel’ is now obligated to submit a report to the court within a month, outlining the actions it has taken to comply with the order. Furthermore, it must implement measures to prevent and punish direct incitement of genocide during its war on Gaza.
“The state of Israel shall… take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts within the scope of Article II of the Genocide Convention,” stated the court.
MNA/PR
