Israel defied ICJ ruling and 'completely failed' to improve conditions in Gaza

Multiple aid organizations have stated that Israeli authorities are disregarding the International Court of Justice (ICJ) order, which demands the provision of sufficient life-saving food and medical supplies to Palestinians facing famine in the Gaza Strip. These organizations point out that Israel's actions are obstructing the entry of humanitarian aid, exacerbating the crisis in the region.

A report released on Tuesday by 35 major aid agencies, including Oxfam, ActionAid, and Islamic Relief, indicates that Israeli forces have repeatedly blocked and restricted crucial humanitarian aid from entering the besieged Gaza Strip. The survey reveals that 89% of NGOs believe Israel's actions have worsened since the ICJ ruling, and 93% think the situation for those receiving aid has become more difficult. The ICJ issued a provisional ruling in January 2024, calling on Israel to avoid hindering aid from entering Gaza and to improve the humanitarian situation there.

All NGOs surveyed reported that Israel's procedures for aid entry are either ineffective, systematically hindering the humanitarian response, or simply inadequate. 95% of aid agencies reported frequently facing delays of up to two months when attempting to import supplies. “As the survey shows, Israel has completely failed to improve the humanitarian situation, ignoring international law while systematically blocking life-saving aid. Even during ceasefires, it’s crucial to assess past failures,” said Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam's Head of Policy, in a press release. “Without accountability and a commitment to protecting humanitarian operations, we risk repeating the same cycle of impunity and neglect, leaving millions without hope for a better future.”

Aid organizations also reported that essential items, including personal protective equipment (PPE), tarpaulins, winter supplies, mobile kitchens, hygiene kits, food, and educational materials, are being prohibited from entering Gaza because Israel insists these items could be used for military purposes. Israel’s “dual-use” procedure bans items it deems could become military equipment, including crucial medical supplies. “Humanitarian access must not only be immediate, but also sustained and unhindered,” said Riham Jafari, ActionAid’s Communications and Advocacy Coordinator. “The rights of Palestinians in Gaza must be protected from acts of genocide, and Israel must be held accountable for its continued violations of international law. Without meaningful accountability, suffering will only deepen, and the path to justice and peace will remain blocked.”

The United Nations and other aid organizations have repeatedly accused Israel of blocking aid from entering Gaza for most of 2024. On January 15, Israel and the Palestinian movement Hamas agreed to a ceasefire, part of efforts to end Israel's 15-month-long attacks on the Gaza Strip, which have caused at least 46,707 Palestinian deaths. The majority of the deceased are women and children, and experts believe the actual death toll is much higher due to many bodies being buried under the rubble.