‘FAMINE IS SETTING IN’: INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE ORDERS ISRAEL TO ENSURE UNHINDERED FOOD SUPPLY TO GAZA AMID FAMINE CONCERNS

In a significant ruling for the war-torn Gaza, judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) unanimously mandated Israel to take immediate and effective action to guarantee the unhindered delivery of basic food supplies to the Palestinian populace in the city. The ICJ emphasised the worsening living conditions in Gaza, expressing grave concern over the escalation of famine and starvation.

“The court observes that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine (…) but that famine is setting in,” stated the judges in their directive.

These measures were sought by South Africa within the context of its ongoing case alleging Israel’s involvement in state-led genocide in Gaza. Notably, in January, the ICJ, commonly referred to as the World Court, instructed Israel to abstain from actions potentially falling under the Genocide Convention and to ensure its forces refrain from any genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza.

In Thursday’s order the court reaffirmed the January measures but added Israel must take action to ensure unhindered provision of basic services and humanitarian assistance including food, water and electricity as well as medical supplies and medical care to Palestinians throughout Gaza.

The judges added that this could be done “by increasing the capacity and number of land crossing points and maintaining them open for as long as necessary”. The court ordered Israel to submit a report in a month after the order to detail how it had given effect to the ruling.

2024-03-29T02:44:10Z dg43tfdfdgfd