The United Nations International Criminal Court (ICC) has ordered Israel to enable the flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza in order to prevent famine, following warnings that famine could hit the region within weeks.
In a unanimous decision, the ICC called on Israel to allow the provision of urgently needed basic humanitarian services and assistance without delay. The court’s ruling came after South Africa sought compliance with an order issued in January to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza.
Israel has denied accusations that it is hindering aid shipments, calling them “completely baseless.” The country’s Foreign Ministry stated that it is working to allow the continued flow of assistance to Gaza by land, air, and sea, in cooperation with the UN and other organizations.
The ICC’s ruling came after a report warned of a “catastrophic” situation evolving in Gaza, with 2.2 million people facing high levels of acute food insecurity. The court also highlighted comments by the UN high commissioner for human rights, who suggested that Israel may be using famine as a weapon of war, which could amount to a war crime.
Despite the resolution passed by the UN Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire, Israel has declared its intention to continue its mission to eliminate Hamas. The Israeli military campaign has led to casualties and the destruction of crucial civilian infrastructure in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with ongoing airstrikes and attacks on hospitals and civilian areas. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region as efforts continue to provide essential humanitarian assistance to those in need.