Written By Lisa Murimi
In a landmark opinion, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is against international law.
The court has called for an immediate cessation of settlement activities in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem and an end to the occupation of these areas and the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded vehemently, denouncing the court’s ruling as a “decision of lies.”
Despite the advisory opinion not being legally binding, it holds considerable political significance, marking the first instance of the ICJ addressing the legality of the 57-year occupation.
The ICJ, based in The Hague, Netherlands, has been investigating the matter since early last year at the behest of the UN General Assembly.
ICJ President Nawaf Salam stated, “Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory is illegal,” emphasizing Israel’s obligation to terminate its unlawful occupation swiftly.
The court also highlighted that Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza did not end its control over the area, asserting that Israel should evacuate all settlers from the West Bank and East Jerusalem and provide reparations for damages caused by the occupation.
Israel disputes the legality of its settlements, but the court maintains they violate international law.
Palestinian officials hailed the decision as a victory for their rights and called on the international community to enforce the court’s opinion.
The findings will be forwarded to the UN General Assembly for further action, potentially shaping future negotiations and legal frameworks for resolving the conflict.
