The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been actively engaged in assessing Israel’s obligations concerning humanitarian aid to Palestinians, particularly in the context of recent conflicts in Gaza. In January 2024, the ICJ issued provisional measures in response to a case brought by South Africa, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza amounted to genocide. The court ordered Israel to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid and alleviate the humanitarian suffering in Gaza.
Despite this order, reports indicate that Israel has imposed severe restrictions on the entry of essential supplies into Gaza, including food, fuel, and medical aid. Human rights organizations and United Nations experts have criticized these actions as potential violations of international humanitarian law, accusing Israel of using starvation as a method of warfare—a practice considered a war crime.
The ICJ’s involvement underscores the international community’s concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israel’s responsibilities under international law to ensure the well-being of the Palestinian population.
