UN Court Hears Arguments on Legality of Israels Occupation of Palestinian Territories

The International Court of Justice concluded historic proceedings on the legality of Israels 57-year occupation of Palestinian lands, with most countries arguing against Israels actions and calling for an independent Palestinian state.

The Hague, Feb 26 (AP): The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations' highest court, concluded its historic proceedings on the legality of Israel's 57-year occupation of lands sought by Palestinians for a future state. The majority of voices at the hearing argued against the Israeli government's policies.

Overwhelming Support for Palestinian Statehood

Over the course of six days, the ICJ heard from an unprecedented number of countries, with the majority arguing that Israel was violating international law and calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Turkey's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmet Yildiz, emphasized that the deepening occupation of Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, and the failure to implement the two-state vision were the real obstacles to peace.

Request for Non-Binding Opinion

The hearings addressed a request by the UN General Assembly for a non-binding opinion on the legality of Israel's policies. The court stated that it will issue its opinion in "due course," with advisory opinions typically released six months after oral proceedings.

Divergent Views on Court's Role

While most countries expressed support for Palestinian rights, a few, such as Fiji, argued that the court should refuse the request. Fiji's representative, Filipo Tarakinikini, cited the Hamas attacks that triggered the war in Gaza and the hostage-taking of Israeli citizens as reasons for caution. The United States also advised against issuing an opinion, calling for an immediate withdrawal from the territories but expressing reservations about resolving the conflict through an advisory opinion focused solely on one party's actions.

Palestinian Appeal for Self-Determination

Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki urged the 15-judge panel to uphold the Palestinian right to self-determination and declare Israel's occupation illegal, demanding its immediate, total, and unconditional end.

Backdrop of Israel-Hamas Conflict

Although the hearings took place against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war, which resulted in the deaths of over 29,000 Palestinians, the focus was on Israel's long-standing occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, rather than the recent conflict.

Previous Court Orders and Accusations

Late last month, the court ordered Israel to prevent death, destruction, and any acts of genocide in its military offensive in Gaza. South Africa filed a separate case accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza Strip, a charge that Israel denied. Israel has consistently rejected accusations of apartheid and bias in UN bodies and international tribunals.

Israel's Non-Participation and Written Submission

Israel did not participate in the oral proceedings but submitted a five-page written statement, arguing that the questions put to the court were prejudiced and failed to recognize Israel's right and duty to protect its citizens.

Historical Context and Ongoing Challenges

Israel captured the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war, with the Palestinians seeking all three areas for an independent state. Israel considers the West Bank a disputed territory subject to negotiation. The peace process has faced repeated setbacks due to Palestinian attacks, Israeli settlement expansion, and disagreements on key issues such as final borders, the status of Jerusalem, and the fate of Palestinian refugees.

Previous Court Ruling on Separation Barrier

In 2004, the ICJ ruled that Israel's separation barrier through East Jerusalem and parts of the West Bank violated international law and called for an immediate halt to its construction. However, Israel has disregarded this ruling.