UN's highest court: Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is unlawful

(Patria) - The International Court of Justice (ICJ) today, in a non-binding advisory opinion, stated that Israel's continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territories is unlawful and should end as soon as possible.

The decision of the so-called World Court is not binding, but it is significant because it has the authority of international law and could weaken support for Israel.

The UN's highest court announced that Israeli settlements, built on occupied Palestinian territories, are illegal.

- Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, as well as the regime associated with them, were established and are maintained in violation of international law - said President Nawaf Salam, referring to the conclusions of the council of 15 judges.

The opinion also states that Israel must compensate Palestinians for damages caused by the occupation of Palestinian territories and that the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly, and all UN member states have an obligation not to recognize the occupation as legal and must not support its continuation.

The case stems from a 2022 request from the UN General Assembly, which preceded the current conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The UN Assembly asked the court to assess the legal consequences of Israel's "prolonged occupation, settlement process, and annexation" of Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, as well as the related policies of the Israeli government.