Landmark Victory: ICJ Declares Israeli Occupation Illegal

News Today: ICJ Rules Israeli Occupation of Palestinian Territories Illegal

The UN’s top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories illegal. In a landmark opinion, the ICJ stated Israel must halt settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem and end its occupation of those areas and Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the court’s decision, calling it a “decision of lies.” The ICJ’s advisory opinion, though not legally binding, holds significant political weight and is the first to address the legality of the 57-year occupation.

ICJ President Nawaf Salam emphasized Israel’s obligation to end its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory promptly. The court also ruled Israel should evacuate all settlers from the West Bank and East Jerusalem, pay reparations to Palestinians for occupation damages, and end systemic discrimination against Palestinians.

Israel, disputing the illegality of its settlements, claims sovereignty over all of Jerusalem, captured in the 1967 Middle East war. The ICJ found Israel’s actions amount to illegal annexation and exploitation of Palestinian resources.

Palestinian leaders hailed the decision, with Hussein Al Sheikh of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) calling it a historic victory for Palestinian rights and self-determination. The court’s findings will be presented to the UN General Assembly for potential action.

This ruling is separate from another case accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.