Despite an order from the International Court of Justice to halt military actions in the southern city of Gaza, Israel initiated bombardment in various areas, including Rafah, the very next day.
Court’s Mandate and its Limitations
According to reports from the “AFP” news agency, the International Court of Justice, I demanded the immediate release of all individuals detained by Hamas while ordering a cessation of hostilities in Rafah on May 24th.
Escalation and Casualties
Within hours of the court ruling, Israel launched attacks on Gaza’s strip, continuing clashes between the Zionist forces and Hamas militants.
Reporting and Further Violence
Eyewitnesses and AFP teams reported Israeli assaults in Rafah and the central city of Deir al-Balah.
Continued Violence and Loss of Lives
During the fresh onslaughts, four more Palestinians were reported dead in the Nasserist Refugee Camp.
Humanitarian Implications and International Response
Israel’s targeting of a Kuwaiti hospital and the inability of aid convoys to reach Rafah due to military presence have intensified concerns. Martin Griffiths, head of the United Nations relief agency, condemned the disruption of aid amidst the dire humanitarian situation.
Ongoing Conflict and Toll on Palestinian Lives
Since October 7th, the Gaza conflict has resulted in at least 35,857 Palestinian fatalities and 80,293 injuries.
Israeli Defiance and Rejection of Court Order
Interestingly, Israel has snubbed the International Court of Justice’s demand to stop military operations in Rafah. Defense Minister Benny Gantz and his colleagues in the Israeli Cabinet have said they will continue bombing Gaza and Rafah.
Global Court Upheld
On May 24, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to end its military operation in Rafah immediately under the Geneva Conventions, following a petition from South Africa.
World Judicial Proceedings
Reuters reports that a consultation occurred at the Global Courtroom in The Hague, with decisions from 14 nations and one appointed authority from Israel.
Presidential Announcement and Enforcement of Order
During his speech at this week’s meeting of international judges convened by The Hague’s global tribunal for war crimes hearings in The Netherlands on Monday morning (local time), President Nawaf Salam made an announcement calling for immediate cessation by Israel on their ongoing offensive campaign against Palestinians living within or near Rafah city limits as stipulated under Geneva Conventions Four.
Call for Ceasefire and Preventative Measures
The verdict emphasized Israel’s immediate cessation of military assaults and urged against any further actions in Rafah that could lead to complete or partial destruction for those residing in Gaza.
