The International Court of Justice, ICJ, has ruled that Israel must uphold its responsibilities as the “occupying power” in the Occupied Palestinian Territory ensuring unrestricted aid flow and protection for civilians.
In its detailed advisory opinion requested by the UN General Assembly, the court stated that Israel is obligated to guarantee essential daily supplies including food, water, fuel, shelter, and medical services to residents of the OPT.
By a 10-to-1 decision, the judges also held that Israel must cooperate in good faith with the United Nations, providing all necessary assistance for humanitarian operations, including those by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, UNRWA.
The ICJ further urged Israel to “respect and protect” humanitarian workers, medical personnel, and facilities, while ensuring that the privileges and immunities of UN officials and premises remain intact.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the court’s opinion as “very important,” especially as the UN intensifies efforts to deliver aid to Gaza following the recent ceasefire.
The advisory opinion requested in December 2024 followed submissions from 45 states and organizations , with 39 presenting oral arguments during hearings in The Hague between April 28 and May 2.
Although the court’s opinion is not legally binding, it carries substantial moral and legal authority and is expected to shape international diplomatic and humanitarian policy.
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Vice-President Julia Sebutinde of Uganda cast the sole dissenting vote in parts of the judgment.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry, however, rejected the ICJ’s ruling, calling it “a political attempt to impose measures against Israel.”
The ICJ reaffirmed that Israel remains bound by international humanitarian and human rights laws, including the prohibition against starvation of civilians and the duty to allow Red Cross access to detainees.
