The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to take action to prevent acts of genocide in its conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, following a case brought by South Africa, Reuters reports.
The decision, supported by 15 out of 17 judges, ruled that Israel must ensure its forces do not commit genocide and improve the humanitarian situation for Palestinian civilians. However, the court stopped short of an immediate ceasefire. The court also expressed concern about hostages in Gaza, urging Hamas to release them without conditions.
While the court’s decisions are final, it lacks enforcement mechanisms. Israel rejected the charge of genocide, asserting its right to self-defense. The court did not make a final ruling on whether genocide occurred but acknowledged the right of Palestinians in Gaza to be protected from acts of genocide.
