Netherlands: The UN’s top court has said that Israel’s presence in the Palestinian-occupied territories is “unlawful”. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) said in its non-binding opinion issued on Friday that Israel has abused its position as an occupying power by implementing policies of occupation, permanent control and building settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. It said that such actions make “Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territory unlawful”. The UN body said that its (Israel’s) continued presence is “illegal” and must be ended “as soon as possible”.

Settlement policy violates international law

The UN’s top court said that Israel’s settlement policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem violates international law. It delivered a non-binding advisory opinion on the legitimacy of Israel’s 57-year occupation of land sought for a Palestinian state, a decision that could have more impact on international opinion than Israel’s policies.

The court also considered

International Court of Justice President Nawaf Salam said in his opinion that the committee found that “Israel’s transfer of settlers to the West Bank and Jerusalem, and Israel’s maintenance of their presence, is contrary to Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.” The court also expressed “serious concern” that Israel’s settlement policy is expanding. Friday’s hearing comes against the backdrop of Israel’s fierce 10-month military assault on Gaza. It launched this retaliation after Hamas attacks in southern Israel. In a separate case, the International Court of Justice is considering South Africa’s claim that Israel’s campaign in Gaza amounts to genocide. Israel strongly denies this claim.

Also know

In the West Asia war, Israel occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip in 1967. The Palestinians want all three areas as an independent nation. Israel considers the West Bank a disputed area, whose future should be decided through negotiations. However, it has established settlements there to strengthen its hold. It has occupied East Jerusalem, but its move is not recognized internationally. It withdrew its army from Gaza in 2005, but continued the blockade of the area even after Hamas came to power in 2007. The international community generally considers all three areas as occupied territories.