UAE ambassador to the UN - Lana Nusseibeh, at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) / The National
In a compelling address to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, UAE's ambassador to the UN, Lana Nusseibeh, asserted that the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal and must cease immediately.
“The Palestinian people have suffered for far too long under an occupation that is seemingly immune from international law,” said Ms Nusseibeh to the world’s top court on Wednesday.
Nusseibeh emphasized the urgent need for a two-state solution and highlighted the recent escalation of violence, including the attack on Israel on October 7th and the destruction in Gaza, as stark reminders of the pressing need for resolution.
The ongoing hearings at the ICJ are on the legality of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, following a request by the UN Security Council in 2022. The hearings have drawn unprecedented attention, with representatives from 52 countries contributing oral statements. Nusseibeh stressed the significance of the ICJ's advisory opinion, which though non-binding, is expected to influence discussions on the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Drawing attention to the plight of civilians, particularly women and children in Gaza, Nusseibeh condemned Israel's violations of international law, including the Geneva Convention. She highlighted Israel's imposition of collective punishment and failure to ensure essential supplies to the population.
In addition to the dire situation in Gaza, Nusseibeh underscored the escalating settler violence in the West Bank and Israeli violations in East Jerusalem, compromising its cultural and religious significance.
Nusseibeh called for Israel's compliance with its obligations as an occupying power, including a ceasefire and cessation of forcible transfers. She urged the international community, including the UN Security Council, to take decisive action to address Israel's breaches of international law.
Despite diplomatic efforts, including a resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, the US has repeatedly blocked such initiatives, complicating efforts to alleviate the crisis.
Nusseibeh urged the ICJ to consider the implications for states failing to uphold their obligations in addressing serious breaches of international law, signalling a call for international cooperation and accountability in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Source: The National