The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark ruling on July 19 calling for an immediate end to Israel’s illegal occupation and apartheid rule of Palestinian territories. The ruling reinforces the two-state solution, with a sovereign State of Palestine as the pathway to peace. According to the ICJ, Israel must withdraw from all occupied territories, cease settlement activities, and pay damages.
The ruling emphasizes that ending the occupation is not conditional on bilateral peace negotiations, rejecting the US stance that insists on Israeli approval for a political settlement. The recent display of US politics, including Congress’ reception of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has shown complicity in Israel’s violations of international law.
The recent escalation of hostilities in Lebanon and attacks between Israel and Yemen highlight the urgent need for a two-state solution to prevent a devastating regional war. The support of the international community, including the UN General Assembly and the ICJ, for ending the occupation is crucial.
The pathway to peace is clear, with support for Palestine to become a UN member state with borders based on June 4, 1967, and its capital in East Jerusalem. The unity of the Palestinian people, backing from Arab and Islamic states, and adherence to international law and UN resolutions are key to achieving peace.
The author’s views, as expressed in the article, highlight the importance of justice and the potential for peace in the region.
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