Israel is set to face accusations of violating international law for refusing to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza during the International Court of Justice (ICJ) sessions, which begin today, Monday, in The Hague .
Since March 2 , Israeli authorities have blocked essential supplies from entering Gaza, home to approximately 2.3 million residents . Nearly all food provisions delivered during the earlier ceasefire have now run out.
In December , the ICJ was tasked with forming an advisory opinion on Israel’s obligations to facilitate aid deliveries from international organizations and countries, including the United Nations .
Israel has justified its blockade by insisting that no goods or supplies will be allowed into Gaza until Hamas releases all hostages held in the region.
Meanwhile, Germany, France, and the UK urged Israel last week to adhere to international law and allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israel, however, has confirmed that it will not permit aid deliveries as part of its pressure tactics against Hamas.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated last Friday that he pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow food and medicine into Gaza.
Israel has accused Hamas of stealing humanitarian aid , while Hamas denies the allegations and blames Israel for the shortages .
Against this backdrop, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution in December urging Israel to comply with its humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians. The resolution expressed grave concern over Gaza's humanitarian crisis. 137 countries voted in favor, while 22 abstained , and Israel, the United States, and 10 other nations opposed it.
Palestinian representatives are expected to be among the first speakers at the ICJ hearings today. Israel will not be among the 40 countries presenting arguments during the five-day sessions, which conclude Friday .
ICJ advisory opinions carry legal and political significance , but they are not binding , and the court does not have enforcement powers .
The United Nations considers Gaza and the West Bank as occupied territories , and under international humanitarian law , occupying powers must facilitate aid efforts and provide food and medical care to those in need.
The ICJ is expected to take several months to issue its final opinion following the hearings.