The Hague - SABA:
France has called on "Israel" during sessions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to "immediately" lift restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, stressing that aid delivery must be carried out extensively and swiftly.
Speaking before the court on Wednesday, France's representative, Diego Colas, stated—according to Quds Press Agency—that "Israel" must open all crossings, facilitate the work of humanitarian organizations, and ensure the protection of aid workers in compliance with international law. These remarks came during sessions dedicated to discussing Israel's humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians.
On the third day of advisory opinion hearings regarding the legal implications of Israel's restrictions on UN agencies, France emphasized that "Israel has no legal authority to obstruct UNRWA's operations in the occupied Palestinian territories."
Colas pointed out that under these obligations, Israel must coordinate with the UN if it intends to terminate UNRWA’s work within its borders, ensuring sufficient notice, a smooth transition period, and the preservation of privileges and immunities for the agency’s staff.
He affirmed that Israel remains bound by its duty to protect UN personnel in the occupied territories, adhere to the Geneva Conventions, and guarantee unimpeded delivery of essential supplies for Palestinian civilians.
Colas added that while Israel has discretion in selecting aid organizations, it must consider the unique circumstances in the occupied territories to ensure adequate assistance. He stressed that UNRWA remains the "primary provider" of aid in these areas, as other organizations cannot meet civilian needs, making it imperative to facilitate UNRWA’s operations.
The ICJ began a week of hearings on Monday to review the occupying power’s humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians, following over 50 days of a comprehensive siege on Gaza amid a devastating war.
According to the court’s agenda, oral arguments will continue from April 28 to May 2, 2025, with 44 countries and four international organizations set to participate.
The Israeli occupation resumed its intensified aggression and blockade on Gaza at dawn on March 18, 2025, after a two-month pause under a ceasefire agreement that took effect on January 19. However, Israel violated the truce terms repeatedly during that period.
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