US, Russia To Argue Legality Of Israel's 'Occupation' Of Palestinian Territories At World Court

The United States and Russia will speak on the legality of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories at the International Court of Justice.

The United States and Russia will present its arguments on Wednesday during the ongoing proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), in The Hague, examining the legal consequences of Israel's 'occupation' of Palestinian territories. The UN top court, also known as the World Court, was asked to provide a non-binding opinion on the legal consequences of the occupation by the UN General Assembly.

During the 6-day historic hearing, the court will examine the 57-year occupation of lands designated for Palestine state. Egypt and France were also scheduled to speak on Wednesday. Over 50 states are due to present their arguments before the judges during this period. Israel, although not participating directly, expressed in written comments that the courts intervention could impede progress towards a negotiated settlement. In 2022, Washington opposed the court's issuance of an opinion and is anticipated to argue that the court lacks jurisdiction to rule on the legality of the occupation. 

On Monday, Palestinian representatives urged the judges to declare Israel’s occupation of their territory illegal, and said that an opinion from the court could contribute to advancing towards a two-state solution. 

On Tuesday, 10 states including South Africa were overwhelmingly critical of Israel's conduct in the occupied territories, with many urging the court to declare the occupation illegal.

“Occupation, Settlement And Annexation”

The recent escalation of violence in Gaza, which was triggered by Hamas' attacks in Israel on October 7th, has further complicated the already entrenched issues in the Middle East and has hindered efforts to pursue peace. According to Reuters, the ICJ's 15-judge panel has been asked to review Israel's "occupation, settlement and annexation ... including measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem, and from its adoption of related discriminatory legislation and measures".

The judges are anticipated to take approximately six months to deliver their opinion on the request. This request also seeks their consideration of the legal status of the occupation and its implications for states involved.

Israel disregarded a previous opinion from the World Court in 2004, which concluded that Israel's separation wall in the West Bank breached international law and should be dismantled. Rather than complying, Israel has proceeded to extend the wall.