Since February 19, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has examined the legality of the Israeli occupation, following the request of the UN General Assembly in December 2022. More than fifty states have sent delegations to present their arguments at the Peace Palace in The Hague. The latest intervention was that of South Africa, which highlighted the impunity of crimes committed under Israeli occupation.
Following a complaint filed at the end of December 2023, South Africa accuses Israel of “genocide” against the Palestinians in Gaza. Although the current hearings focus on the occupation and not events in Gaza, it is clear that the seriousness of the accusations weighs on the ongoing proceedings at the ICJ.
After South Africa’s intervention, it is Algeria’s turn to defend questions relating to the right to self-determination. The judges are expected to deliver their opinion within the next six months, providing a legal basis that could guide action by the international community.
This case highlights the importance of international institutions in resolving conflicts and promoting respect for international law. While awaiting the ICJ’s verdict, the whole world is holding its breath as to the outcome of this crucial debate for stability in the Middle East.