Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of failing to comply with an order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) related to the genocide case brought against it by South Africa.
According to HRW, Israel has not implemented the ICJ’s directive issued on Jan. 26 to ensure the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Omar Shakir, Israel and Palestine director at HRW, stated that Israel’s failure to adhere to the court’s ruling has exacerbated the plight of Gaza’s 2.3 million Palestinians, putting them in even greater danger.
Members Of The Human Rights Watch (Credits: The Australian)
HRW cited data from the United Nations showing a significant decline in the daily average of trucks entering Gaza to deliver aid, food, and medicine following the ICJ’s ruling.
Israel has denied imposing restrictions on aid delivery, instead blaming delays on the United Nations, alleging Hamas diversion of aid, or citing security concerns.
As part of the ICJ ruling, Israel was expected to submit a report on its compliance with the court’s order. HRW criticized Israel for allegedly disrupting aid intended for northern Gaza, including the suspension of food deliveries by the World Food Program after an Israeli strike on a food convoy.
Furthermore, HRW accused Israel of obstructing fuel deliveries to water and wastewater pumping stations in northern Gaza and destroying offices of humanitarian organizations in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the ICJ ruling as “ridiculous” and reiterated Israel’s commitment to continue its operations in Gaza until the stated goal of eliminating Hamas is achieved.
HRW’s allegations underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the challenges faced in delivering essential aid to its residents amidst the conflict and political tensions.
