Image: Saleh Salem/REUTERS
THE HAGUE – At the International Court of Justice, countries presented evidence detailing Israel’s violations of international law as an occupying power. The arguments focused on Israel’s refusal to allow humanitarian access to Gaza, with delegations emphasizing that the situation has escalated into an unprecedented humanitarian collapse.
Each nation points to a different form of breach: starvation, self-determination, aid obstruction, or ethnic cleansing.
South Africa stated that Israel’s conduct in obstructing aid, cutting off electricity, and targeting infrastructure constitutes a clear breach of its legal obligations. The delegation argued that rewarding Israel’s claim of insufficient evidence would legitimise its refusal to cooperate with international investigations.
Furthermore, Algeria presented legal arguments underscoring that international humanitarian law obliges occupying powers to ensure the welfare of the occupied population. It added that Israel’s systematic denial of aid and essential services violates this responsibility and amounts to collective punishment.
Saudi Arabia cited statements from international bodies and reports to support claims that the blockade and continued military actions amount to ethnic cleansing. The Saudi delegation described the complete shutdown of humanitarian corridors as a strategy of starvation.
Belgium has also denounced Israel’s unilateral decisions targeting the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), asserting that these actions undermine neutral humanitarian operations and breach binding international norms. Belgium reminded the court that international law prohibits any measures that obstruct relief operations in occupied territories.
Lastly, Colombia reiterated that the denial of self-determination to Palestinians lies at the core of the conflict. It highlighted that Israel’s occupation cannot be viewed as temporary given the length and nature of its control. Colombia demanded that the court reaffirm the occupied population’s right to resist and to receive humanitarian support.
SMread: ICJ Hearings: South Africa, Saudi Arabia Accuse Israel of Violating International Law
Where Does Israel Stand Right Now?
The United Nations Secretary-General described the situation starkly, saying: “Gaza is a killing field. Aid has dried up. The floodgates of horror have reopened.”
On April 16, 2025, Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz stated: “Israel’s policy is clear. No humanitarian aid is about to enter Gaza.” The statement was cited repeatedly during the hearing as direct evidence of intent to deprive civilians of basic necessities.
Legal representatives referenced the 2004 Wall Advisory Opinion to remind the court that an occupying power does not have free rein. Israel’s current actions reflect a complete breakdown of international legal norms, as its legislative moves are aimed at eliminating humanitarian presence entirely.
The court was asked to consider whether occupation can be considered lawful when it systematically violates international obligations. Delegations noted that under the Fourth Geneva Convention and customary international law, Israel remains responsible for ensuring humanitarian access, regardless of security concerns or political aims.
Several states raised concerns that Israel’s impunity has been reinforced by the absence of enforceable consequences. They argued that the court’s advisory opinion would not only clarify the law but also serve as a critical tool to push for international accountability.
The hearing concluded with widespread consensus that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is not a byproduct of war, but a deliberate outcome of policy. All delegations demanded the court issue an urgent opinion holding Israel accountable under international humanitarian and human rights law.
For more on the ICJ hearing, watch the video below:
