[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is set to deliver a ruling on Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict at 3 pm (1400 BST) on Friday, as the US voices concerns over Israel’s increasing diplomatic isolation among its traditional allies.
Amid speculation that the ICJ may demand an end to Israel’s offensive, the International Criminal Court (ICC) named three judges to consider arrest warrants for Hamas leaders, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
Read more: Palestinian Delegates Urge Israeli Occupation Cessation At ICJ
South Africa recently requested that the ICJ, based in The Hague, order a halt to Israel’s offensive in Gaza, particularly in Rafah, to protect the Palestinian people. ICJ decisions, while influential, often go unenforced as the court lacks enforcement mechanisms. A ruling against Israel could exacerbate its political isolation following recent setbacks.
Israel has indicated it will disregard any ceasefire order. “No power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza,” said spokesperson Avi Hyman.
Israeli media reported that the Israel Defense Forces concluded troops violated regulations when they killed a UN staff member and injured another in Gaza.
Israel faces growing international challenges, with Ireland, Norway, and Spain recognizing Palestinian statehood. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressed concern over Israel’s isolation and reiterated support for a two-state solution through direct negotiations.
Sullivan also criticized Israel’s decision to withhold funds from the Palestinian Authority, calling it strategically misguided as it destabilizes the West Bank and undermines Palestinian welfare, which is in Israel’s interest.
Sullivan echoed Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s readiness to collaborate with Congress on potential penalties against the ICC following its pursuit of Netanyahu’s arrest.
Amid ongoing conflict, Israel launched intense airstrikes on Gaza and signaled readiness to resume truce and hostage release talks with Hamas. The Gaza Strip’s civil defense agency reported that early morning airstrikes killed 26 people, including 15 children, in Gaza City. Street battles continued in Jabaliya and Rafah, with Hamas and Islamic Jihad firing mortars at Israeli troops. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 Israelis and 36,000 Palestinians since the violence erupted on October 7.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
