The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declined to entertain a request for urgent measures to protect Rafah, a city in the southern Gaza Strip, despite escalating concerns over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
South Africa, on February 12, filed an urgent application with the ICJ, seeking immediate intervention to halt the ongoing operation in Rafah. However, the ICJ has refrained from issuing additional interim measures, citing existing directives for Israel to uphold the safety and security of civilians in Gaza, as mandated in its previous January ruling.
In a statement issued from The Hague, the ICJ emphasized the gravity of the situation in Rafah, highlighting its regional ramifications and the urgent need for a resolution.
“The recent developments in the Rafah area have exacerbated an already deeply alarming situation, with implications extending far beyond the region,” the court stated.
This decision comes after the ICJ’s call on Israel in January to take decisive action to prevent ethnic cleansing in Gaza, underscoring the need for humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the region.
Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has been subjected to relentless attacks by Israeli forces, resulting in over 28,000 Palestinian fatalities, more than 68,000 injuries, and the displacement of millions.
The ICJ’s decision not to intervene has sparked outrage among humanitarian organizations and activists, who fear an escalation of violence and further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Rafah and beyond.