The International Court of Justice in The Hague has issued a pivotal decision, demanding that Israel halt its military operations in Rafah, Gaza. This ruling has sparked a flurry of discussions within Israel's government and reactions around the world. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding a telephonic consultation with key ministers including the foreign minister, the minister of strategic affairs, the minister of justice, the minister of defense, the head of the National Assembly, and the government's legal adviser.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the court's decision, labeling it a 'moral collapse.' He emphasized that the ruling failed to address the abduction of Israeli citizens and Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism. Lapid suggested that a more professionally managed government could have avoided the current diplomatic fallout and achieved broader international support.
South Africa has praised the decision, calling it 'groundbreaking,' and stated that the ruling is binding on Israel. The country plans to refer the matter to the UN Security Council. Meanwhile, Hamas welcomed the ruling but expressed hopes that it would extend beyond Rafah to address what they term 'genocide' in the entire Gaza Strip.
Several Israeli officials have voiced strong opinions against the decision. MK Avigdor Lieberman criticized the Israeli government's engagement with the court, calling it a 'serious mistake.' He argued that various international institutions are biased against democratic countries fighting terrorism. MK Danny Danon also expressed his discontent, arguing that the court members are detached from the realities faced by Israel.
Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gabir, said that the court's order should be met with increased military pressure and the complete destruction of Hamas. The Shalom Now organization, however, sees the decision as an opportunity for change. They argue that ending the war and respecting international rulings could prevent Israel's further isolation and improve regional security.
The UN Security Council is expected to convene to discuss the court's orders, potentially giving them binding force. While Israel might seek an American veto to prevent the decision from becoming binding, differences in opinion between Israel and the U.S. administration have officials concerned.
- An official statement from Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected following the consultations with his ministers. The exclusion of Benny Gantz from these discussions signals ongoing tensions within the Israeli government.
- Israeli officials are hoping for U.S. support in blocking any binding decision from the UN Security Council. However, it remains uncertain whether the U.S. administration will align with Israel's requests given the current diplomatic climate.
