The range of Israel’s obligations under international law, spelled out by the International Court of Justice ruling yesterday, are crystal clear. These start with the people of Gaza and throughout the occupied Palestinian territory having the right to the essential supplies they need to live, and must be ensured by Israel as the occupying power.
The Advisory Opinion also confirmed afresh that international human rights law applies alongside international humanitarian law in the OPT, and that Israel is bound to respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of Palestinians. The Court specifically singled out the rights to life, to be free from torture or ill-treatment, to liberty and security, to freedom of movement, to protection of the family, to an adequate standard of living, to health, education and to be free from discrimination, alongside the right to self-determination.
Israel – and all other States - must comply with the law as made clear in the Court’s ruling, and act swiftly to bring about meaningful improvements to the appalling human rights and humanitarian situation on the ground. Other parties to the conflict must also comply with their obligations under international law. That starts with saving lives rather than placing them at grave risk, and flooding Gaza with much-needed aid.
This must be the first step towards recovery and peacebuilding anchored in human rights, so that the ceasefire in Gaza transforms into enduring peace, in line with international law.
