The top United Nations court commands a stop to the assault on Rafah.
The Israeli military offensive in the southern region of Rafah, Gaza Strip, is facing global criticism. To address this issue, South Africa has sought help from the United Nations' highest court. It has asked for an immediate end to the operation due to the dire humanitarian situation there.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has ruled in favor of South Africa. They have called upon Israel to immediately cease the military operation in Rafah. The court's decision was based on the current devastating humanitarian condition in Rafah, requiring further actions to minimize harm to the local population.
South Africa has previously made similar demands against Israel in summary proceedings, associated with its genocide lawsuit filed in December. The court had already ordered Israel to take steps to avoid genocide and let humanitarian aid. However, South Africa claims Israel has failed to follow these orders.
The outcomes of the world court are binding. Nevertheless, the ICJ does not have the authority to enforce such decisions. It can, however, urge the UN Security Council to intervene. All UN member states must respect Security Council measures. But, it's uncertain if the United States would let go of its veto right for a resolution regarding Israel's exit from Rafah.
Israel refutes the charges
In its latest request on May 10, South Africa aimed to stop genocide against Palestinians. Leaving Rafah was part of their demands. They presented their motion, stating that the previous ICJ decisions regarding the Gaza war were not enough.
Prior to this hearing, Israel dismissed accusations of genocide in Gaza Strip at the ICJ as unjustified. The South African-backed accusations were seen as a "twisting of facts". Israel claims it is exercising its right to self-defense following attacks by Hamas and other extremist groups in southern Israel on October 7, claiming the lives of 1,200 people.
In Rafah, Israel intends to neutralize the last remaining Hamas forces. Israeli government spokesperson Avi Hyman, in response to a question on what Israel would do if the court orders a halt to the military operation in the Gaza Strip, said, "No power on earth can stop Israel from safeguarding its citizens and taking action against Hamas in Gaza. We will vanquish Hamas, reestablish peace and security for Israelis, and Palestinians." Israel cannot tolerate a regime on its southern border that pursues the obliteration of Israel.
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The ICJ's ruling echoes international concern, urging Israel to halt its military operation in the Gaza Strip's Rafah region, due to the dire conditions affecting Palestinians residing there. Despite this decision, Israel maintains its right to self-defense, citing attacks from Hamas and other militant groups in the southern region.
Source: www.ntv.de
