In a landmark decision, judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) have directed Israel to cease its military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah and withdraw from the enclave. This ruling was prompted by a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide.This marks the third time this year that the 15-judge panel has issued preliminary orders seeking to mitigate the death toll and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza. While legally binding, these orders face enforcement challenges, given the courts lack of enforcement mechanisms.Breaking: Intl Court of Justice orders Israel to end its assault on Rafah. Govts must use their leverage—including arms embargoes & targeted sanctions—to press Israel to comply w binding @CIJ_ICJ orders. Rules-based intl order & lives of 2.3 million Palestinians hang in balance pic.twitter.com/Yjhap5NQmg— Omar Shakir (@OmarSShakir) May 24, 2024What did ICJ President sayReading out the courts decision, ICJ President Nawaf Salam emphasized that the provisional measures issued in March were insufficient to address the dire situation in Rafah. Stressing the urgency of the matter, Salam outlined the need for an immediate cessation of Israels military offensive to prevent the potential destruction of the Palestinian population.Heres what he said:🇮🇱BREAKING 🚫ICJ orders Israel to ..“immediately halt its military operations in Rafah” pic.twitter.com/1Co8J0dfqY— Casey Wright 🥖🎪 (@503i7) May 24, 2024Humanitarian concerns in RafahDescribing the humanitarian situation in Rafah as disastrous, the ICJ underscored the imperative for Israel to halt its military actions, ensuring the preservation of lives and livelihoods. South Africas legal representatives urged the court to take emergency action, highlighting the critical need to safeguard the Palestinian peoples survival.According to media reports, the majority of ICJ judges recognized the gravity of the situation in Rafah, deeming it exceptionally dire. The judge leading the proceedings cast doubt on Israels assurances of safety and humanitarian access, citing the lack of evidence.Who is responsibleThe ICJs ruling not only mandates Israels immediate cessation of military operations but also calls for the reopening of border crossings to facilitate humanitarian aid. Moreover, the court has ordered Israel to provide a progress report within one month, ensuring accountability and compliance with the institutions directives.
