By Emily Rauhala and Steve Hendrix
THE HAGUE — The International Court of Justice on Friday ordered Israel to do more to prevent the killing and harm of civilians in Gaza but did not call for a cease-fire, disappointing Palestinians who had hoped the court would endorse their pleas for immediate relief from the violence.
At a closely watched hearing at The Hague’s Peace Palace, the court’s president read out its order and reasoning, confirming that the ICJ has jurisdiction in the landmark case brought by South Africa and arguing that there is an urgent need for measuresbecause of the plausibility of genocide. It called on Israel to prevent the possibility of genocide, including by allowing more aid and punishing comments from officials and soldiers that amount to incitement.
The court also said Israel must submit a report in one month outlininghow it is implementing the court’s orders.
“We find ourselves in a perplexing situation as a court decision acknowledging the possibility of genocide falls short of demanding a complete cease-fire,” said Mohammed Mahmoud, 36, a father of five who has fled Gaza City for Rafah during the conflict. “Waiting longer in such circumstances only prolongs death and enduring pain.”
Read more at: Washington Post