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

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza as it handed down a landmark ruling in a case brought by South Africa.

Pro-Palestinian supporters in Pretoria celebrate after watching the International Court of Justice deliver its decision following a hearing of the genocide case against Israel on January 26, 2024. AFP - PHILL MAGAKOE

Israel must take "immediate and effective measures to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians," the top UN court ruled.

However the court's 17 judges did not impose a ceasefire as had been sought by South Africa.

“The court is acutely aware of the extent of the human tragedy that is unfolding in the region and is deeply concerned about the continuing loss of life and human suffering,” Joan E. Donoghue, the court’s president, said.

• South Africa takes Israel to international court for 'genocidal' acts in Gaza

Cheers and applause

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the council of South Africa's ruling party erupted into cheers as the much-awaited decision was announced from The Hague.

The African National Congress national executive committee suspended a meeting to watch a broadcast from the court, with live footage showing senior party and government figures celebrating.

The filing to the ICJ alleged that Israel “has engaged in, is engaging in and risks further engaging in genocidal acts against the Palestinian people in Gaza".

South Africa had asked for the court to order the Israeli Defence Forces to halt their bombardment of Gaza.

• Middle East conflict takes diplomatic toll on African nations

'Groundless'

Both Israel and its ally the United States have dismissed the case as groundless.

"The State of Israel is accused of genocide at a time when it is fighting genocide," said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the run-up to the hearings.

Provisional measures by the ICJ are legally binding, but it is not clear if Israel intends to comply with the court orders.

On 7 October Hamas gunmen launched an attack on Israel that left about 1,140 people dead, mostly civilians. They also took some 250 people hostage – more than half of whom remain captive.

Since then, Israel has killed more than 26,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the territory, which is ruled by Hamas.