ICJ orders Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza

THE HAGUE, Netherlands: The United Nations’ top court decided on Friday not to throw out a genocide case against Israel for its military offensive in Gaza, as part of a preliminary decision in the matter.

Joan E. Donoghue, president of the International Court of Justice, opened the session to read out the highly anticipated decision made by a panel of 17 judges in a case that goes to the core of one of the world’s most intractable conflicts.

“The state of Israel shall…. take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts within the scope of Article II of the Genocide convention,” the court said.

In a sweeping ruling, a large majority of the 17-judge panel of the ICJ voted for urgent measures which covered most of what South African asked for with the notable exception of ordering a halt to Israeli military action in Gaza.

The court ordered Israel to refrain from any acts that could fall under the genocide convention and also ensure that its troops do not commit any genocidal acts in Gaza.

Here’s a quick recap of the ICJ ruling:

•         The court says it has jurisdiction to rule in the case.
•         The court orders Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in the Gaza Strip.
•         The court says Israel must prevent and punish incitement to genocide in the Gaza Strip.
•         The court says Israel must allow humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip.
•         The court obliges Israel to take more measures to protect but Palestinians but does not order it to end military operations in the Gaza Strip.