The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is currently reviewing two cases involving Israel. While one case, initiated by South Africa, accuses Israel of "genocidal acts" in its military campaign in Gaza, the other case is led by Indonesia and pertains to Israel's longstanding "occupation" of Palestinian territory.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is currently addressing two cases involving Israel, each presenting distinct legal challenges. While the ongoing case initiated by South Africa accuses Israel of "genocidal acts" during its military campaign in Gaza following a deadly terror attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, another case led by Indonesia focuses on Israel's prolonged "occupation" of Palestinian territory.
In particular, the UNGA expressly asked the ICJ for an "advisory opinion" on the "legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem." December 30, 2022, is the date of this resolution's adoption. Following the ICJ's receipt of non-public written statements in 2023, the case is expected to commence with oral hearings in February. The participation of Slovenia and Indonesia has been confirmed.
Indonesia's Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi, recently declared her intent to deliver an oral statement during the hearings scheduled to begin on February 19. Marsudi emphasized the importance of upholding international law and respecting the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. To prepare for her statement, she convened around 50 international law experts in Jakarta.
Tanja Fajon, Slovenia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, announced that her country would participate in the hearings on February 23. Fajon highlighted the broad spectrum of alleged violations committed in the region over decades, emphasizing the ongoing repercussions visible today. Given recent events in Gaza and the West Bank, Slovenia, representing one of the few EU countries, decided to actively participate and present its perspectives in these proceedings.
The ICJ will now assess the arguments and evidence presented during the upcoming oral hearings, navigating the complexities of legal questions surrounding Israel's actions in the Palestinian territories. The outcome of these proceedings will contribute to the broader international discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and may have implications for future legal considerations.