ICJ rules against Israel, orders it to allow aid into Gaza
The ICJ ruled that Israel must allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, stating its restrictions violate international law and that Israel failed its obligations as an occupying power. The court found that Israel has not provided credible evidence to justify cutting ties with UNRWA and that the occupying power may never invoke reasons of security to justify the general suspension of all humanitarian activities in occupied territory. The ICJ instructed Israel to respect UN premises and personnel and allow access to Palestinian prisoners. Israel rejected the ruling, accusing UN organs of being "breeding grounds for terrorists." The US Department of State dismissed the ruling as “corrupt,” accusing the court of unfairly targeting Israel and ignoring alleged Hamas infiltration of UNRWA. However, the court stated Israel hadn't substantiated claims of widespread Hamas affiliation within UNRWA. The court determined Israel blocked UN aid into Gaza between March and May of this year, in violation of the ban on using starvation as a weapon of war, and ruled it must ensure access to essential resources. The ICJ also reaffirmed the prohibition on forced displacement and collective punishment.
