UN Special Rappourteurs on Human Rights Call for Protective Presence in Occupied Palestinian Territory
Experts hail International Court of Justice declaration on illegality of Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territory as “historic” for Palestinians and international law.
In a landmark ruling on July 19, 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) declared Israel's occupation of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem illegal, along with its settlement regime, annexation, and resource exploitation. Independent human rights experts have called on Israel and UN Member States to comply with the ruling, which mandates an end to the occupation, reparations for Palestinian victims, and the dismantling of settlements.
Crucially, the ICJ refuted the notion that Palestinian self-determination should be achieved solely through bilateral negotiations, a stance that has perpetuated violence and dispossession for decades. The ruling is a critical reaffirmation of international laws prohibiting annexation, apartheid, and racial segregation, offering a pathway to justice and peace based on Palestinian freedom.
However, since the ruling, Israel has escalated attacks on civilians in Gaza, further violating international law. UN Special Rappourters have stressed the need for a protective presence in Palestine, ensuring international oversight to safeguard Palestinian lives and rights. They urge states to sever ties with Israel's illegal occupation through economic, political, and diplomatic measures, including targeted sanctions and arms embargoes.
The international community is called upon to hold Israel accountable, challenge its violations of international humanitarian law, and prevent further human rights abuses. Now, more than ever, a protective presence is essential to protect the Palestinian people and restore respect for international law.