A statement made by a Palestinian diplomat at the International Court of Justice on Monday (April 28, 2025) accused Israel of targeting civilians, displacing people, and obstructing aid workers in Gaza. Israel, however, denies deliberately targeting civilians and aid workers in its conflict with Hamas and chose not to attend the hearing at the court.
Palestinian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Ammar Hijazi, alleged that Israel is violating international law in the occupied territories by starving, killing, and displacing Palestinians, as well as obstructing humanitarian organizations from providing assistance. These accusations were presented at the court in The Hague.
The hearings were initiated following a request from the U.N. General Assembly last year, asking the court to examine Israel’s legal responsibilities after it prevented the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees from operating within its borders. The General Assembly sought an advisory opinion on Israel’s obligations in the occupied territories to ensure the unhindered provision of essential supplies for the Palestinian civilian population.
These proceedings come at a critical time as the humanitarian aid system in Gaza is on the verge of collapse due to Israel’s restrictions on the entry of vital supplies since March 2. The World Food Program recently declared that their food stocks in Gaza have been depleted, leaving many families struggling to feed their children.
While the court is expected to take several months to reach a decision, experts believe that the outcome could significantly impact international aid to Israel, as well as public opinion. However, it remains uncertain whether any ruling will influence Israel’s actions, given its past disregard for international legal opinions.
Despite Israel’s absence from the court, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized the case, accusing international bodies of weaponizing law against Israel. South Africa is scheduled to present its arguments on Tuesday, continuing the legal battle against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The ban imposed by Israel on the U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has severely limited aid operations in Gaza, prompting concerns about the well-being of the Palestinian population. Israel alleges that UNRWA has links to Hamas and has accused the organization of failing to address security threats posed by the militant group.
While the legal proceedings unfold, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention to address the pressing needs of the Palestinian population.
Published – April 28, 2025 02:25 pm IST
