ICJ Holds Hearings on Israel’s Actions in Palestinian Territories

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has initiated hearings on the legal consequences of Israel’s policies in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. The proceedings, titled “Advisory opinion regarding the legal consequences of Israel’s policies and practices,” are taking place from February 19 to 26 at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands. Palestinian representatives are presenting statements during the six-day hearings, while Israel, having submitted written views, is not attending. The ICJ’s opinion, expected at the hearings’ conclusion, won’t be legally binding but is anticipated to increase legal and moral pressure on Israel. The hearings were prompted by a January 17, 2023 request from the UN General Assembly regarding Israel’s continuous violation of Palestinians’ right to self-determination. This follows South Africa’s recent genocide lawsuit against Israel, and the ICJ’s previous ruling on measures to prevent genocide in Gaza. The UN had sought an opinion in 2004, leading to a declaration that Israel’s separation wall in the West Bank violated international law.