Pakistan Accuses Israel at ICJ of “Significant Breach” Against UNRWA
Israel’s conduct risks setting dangerous global precedent
Pakistan has strongly condemned Israel’s actions targeting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), labeling them “one of the most significant” breaches of UN privileges and immunities.
Speaking on the fourth day of hearings at the ICJ concerning Israel’s obligations in the occupied Palestinian territory, including Gaza and the West Bank, Syed Haider Shah, representing Pakistan, asserted that Israel’s conduct poses a grave threat to UN operations worldwide.
“If Israel is not stopped, that conduct will become an invitation and a blueprint for governments around the world to use the power of the state to remove international scrutiny,” Mr. Shah told the court. “Israel’s behaviour is therefore a threat to the UN operations globally and should be treated as such by the court.”
Pakistan’s statement underscores the growing international concern over the impact of Israeli actions on humanitarian aid and the ability of international organizations to operate in the region. The hearings at the ICJ are focusing on the legal ramifications of Israel’s occupation and its responsibilities under international law. Pakistan’s intervention highlights the country’s strong stance on the Palestinian issue and its commitment to upholding the integrity and effectiveness of the United Nations.
Over 423,000 people in Gaza displaced ‘with no safe place to go’: UN
The UN has warned that humanitarian efforts in Gaza are severely constrained as Israeli military operations intensify, with over 423,000 Palestinians displaced yet again, “with no safe place to go”, Anadolu reports.
“The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warned that humanitarian operations continue to be stifled by severe movement restrictions inside Gaza, as well as [Israeli] military activity and attacks that jeopardise the safety of aid workers and their premises,” said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric at a news conference.
He noted that “recent strikes have reportedly hit residential buildings, intensifying sheltering displaced people, especially in Rafah and eastern Gaza City.”
As of Tuesday, “our humanitarian partners estimate that more than 423,000 people have been displaced once again with no safe place to go in Gaza.”
