Israel dismisses ICJ’s advisory opinion, calling it predictable and shameful

Though not legally binding, the advisory opinion is expected to intensify international pressure on Israel to allow UNRWA to resume its operations.

By Kostis Konstantinou, TPS

Israel denounced an advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) stating that Israel, as the “occupying power” in Gaza, is legally obligated to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, including assistance provided by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

In a statement the Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem calls the development ‘entirely predictable’ and categorically rejects the ICJ’s opinion.

“This is yet another political attempt to impose political measures against Israel under the guise of ‘International Law.’ UNRWA employees directly took part in the October 7th massacre and continue to assist Hamas… To this day, UNRWA still employs more than 1,400 Hamas operatives. Israel will not cooperate with an organization that is infested with terror activities,” the ministry emphasizes.

The Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon called the ruling shameful. “They are blaming Israel for not cooperating with UN organs […] They should be blaming themselves,” Ambassador Danon said.

“Those organs became breeding grounds for terrorists. Take for example UNRWA… an organization that supported Hamas for years.”

In a public statement, ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa said that Israel must ensure the population of Gaza has access to basic necessities such as food, water, and medicine.

“The Court considers that Israel must accept and facilitate relief programs implemented by the United Nations and their entities, including UNRWA,” Iwasawa said.

The advisory ruling comes after Israel passed laws restricting UNRWA activities within its territory.

The ruling has reignited the international debate over Israel’s responsibilities under international law, humanitarian access in conflict zones, and the role of UN agencies in providing aid amid ongoing tensions in the region.

The advisory opinion is not legally binding. However, it is to be expected that even more pressure will be exerted on Israel to allow UNRWA to resume its activities.

The US and many other countries have not issued a statement yet.

Germany said that it supported the humanitarian obligations but expressed reservations on UNRWA’s neutrality; the Foreign Ministry in Berlin called for “balanced implementation” amid ceasefire efforts.

Canada cautiously endorsed the humanitarian aspects; Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly urged “immediate aid scaling” but avoided full alignment, citing Hamas threats.

The UK acknowledged the “important moral weight” of the opinion; the foreign secretary urged Israel to ensure aid flows but stopped short of full endorsement, citing security concerns. The UK said it confirms its abstention on related UNGA resolutions.

France welcomed the call for humanitarian access; President Macron’s office stated it “reinforces the need for compliance with Geneva Conventions,” while criticizing Hamas.

Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on Israel to “end the occupation promptly, halt any new settlement activities, and evacuate all existing settlements.”

Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Sadadi said, “Israel’s impunity must end. Its war crimes must be stopped. Israel must be held accountable.”