On Friday, July 19, 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, issued a significant advisory opinion declaring the Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories since 1967 as illegal under international law. This landmark ruling, presented by President Nawaf Salam, represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, urging global cooperation to resolve the longstanding issue. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one of the most protracted and complex disputes in modern history, centers around the territorial and political claims of both Israelis and Palestinians. Since the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel has occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip. Over the years, Israel has established settlements in these territories, which the international community, including the United Nations, has largely deemed illegal under the Geneva Conventions.

The ICJ’s advisory opinion, while not legally binding, carries significant moral and legal weight in the realm of international law. The court’s decision is influential and can shape international public opinion and policy. In his reading of the court’s conclusions, President Nawaf Salam emphasized that the Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, along with the regime supporting them, are in violation of international law.

“The Israeli colonies 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,” stated President Salam. This strong condemnation from a body of 15 judges underscores the illegality of the settlements and highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.

The ICJ’s advisory opinion calls upon all states to cooperate in ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a directive that holds substantial implications for international diplomacy and policy. The ruling is likely to influence the stance of various nations and international organizations regarding their support for Israel. Countries that have historically backed Israel might face increased pressure to reassess their positions and policies in light of the ICJ’s findings.

While the court’s decisions are not enforceable, they serve as a guide for international conduct and can lead to significant diplomatic and economic consequences. The advisory opinion could potentially weaken international support for Israel’s settlement policies and bolster the Palestinian cause on the global stage.

The advisory opinion has elicited varied reactions from the international community. Proponents of Palestinian statehood view the decision as a victory for international law and justice, while supporters of Israel may perceive it as a biased judgment that undermines Israel’s security and sovereignty.

Moving forward, the ICJ’s opinion could pave the way for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It underscores the urgency for a negotiated two-state solution that ensures peace, security, and mutual recognition for both Israelis and Palestinians.

The ICJ’s advisory opinion on the illegality of Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories marks a significant moment in the quest for peace in the Middle East. By calling for global cooperation to end the conflict, the court has highlighted the importance of international law and diplomacy in resolving one of the world’s most enduring conflicts. As the international community grapples with the implications of this ruling, the hope remains that it will catalyze meaningful progress toward a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. 

By Cora Sulleyman