ICJ rejects South Africa’s request for additional emergency measures on Rafah. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has decided on South Africa’s request for additional emergency measures to safeguard the rights of Palestinians in the wake of Israel’s recent offensive in Rafah.
In a statement released on Friday, the ICJ acknowledged the “exponentially increasing humanitarian nightmare” in the Gaza Strip, particularly in Rafah, citing concerns raised by the United Nations Secretary-General.
The court emphasized the urgent need for the effective implementation of provisional measures outlined in its previous order, aimed at preventing genocidal acts during Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
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However, despite the grim situation, the ICJ stated that it does not find it necessary to impose additional provisional measures at this time.
This decision follows South Africa’s appeal to the World Court earlier this month, urging consideration of Israel’s plans to extend its offensive into Rafah and its potential impact on Palestinian rights.
Israel responded to South Africa’s request by urging the court to reject it, arguing that the claims lacked factual or legal basis and were not prompted by any change in circumstances.
The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas-led gunmen from Gaza has resulted in significant casualties.
Israeli tallies report around 1,200 deaths, while Gaza health authorities estimate over 28,000 Palestinians killed in Israel’s retaliatory airstrikes and ground invasion.
As ICJ rejects South Africa’s request for additional emergency measures on Rafah, the Israeli response has sparked international criticism and calls for restraint, even from its staunch ally, the United States.
