The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that Israel’s continued occupation of Palestinian territory is illegal and that it should come to an end as soon as possible.
“The transfer by Israel of settlers to the West Bank and Jerusalem as well as Israel’s maintenance of their presence, is contrary to article 49 of the fourth Geneva Convention,” the ICJ stated in its ruling.
The panel of 15 judges from around the world also said Israel’s use of natural resources from Palestinian territory was “inconsistent” with its obligations under international law as an occupying power.
President of the ICJ, Nawaf Salam said Israel should not deport or transfer part of its civilian population into the territory it occupies. The court also ordered Israel to pay reparations to Palestinians.
The panel ruled that Israel must end settlement construction immediately and that existing settlements must be removed, according to the 83-page opinion read out by Mr Salam.
The ICJ, also known as the World Court, is the highest UN body for hearing disputes between states. Although its rulings are difficult to implement, they add to the growing international pressure and isolation that Israel faces in the global community.
In a separate case brought by South Africa, the ICJ is considering allegations that Israel is committing genocide in its war on Gaza.
Israel, which normally considers the United Nations and international tribunals as unfair and biased, did not send a legal team to the hearings.
