ICJ Rules Israel's Settlement Policies Violate International Law, Constitute De Facto Annexation, Orders Reparations

Jul 19, 2024, 01:47 PM

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has delivered an advisory opinion on the legal implications of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. The ICJ ruled that Israel's settlement policies and exploitation of natural resources in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza are in breach of international law. The court declared that Israel's continued presence in these territories constitutes 'de facto annexation' and systematic discrimination against Palestinians, including apartheid and segregation. Furthermore, the ICJ stated that Gaza remains an integral part of the occupied territories despite Israel's 2005 disengagement. The court also found that Israel must make reparations for damages caused by its occupation since 1967, cease all new settlement activities immediately, and respect Palestinians' right to self-determination.