Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the historic Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Israel’s policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The ICJ’s opinion, which declares Israel’s occupation and settlements illegal, is being hailed as a significant validation of the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “The ICJ ruling that Israel must end its occupation & illegal settlements is vindication of the legitimate struggle of the brave Palestinian people.” He urged the international community and the United Nations to implement the ruling, ensuring Palestinian self-determination through a two-state solution in line with relevant UN resolutions.
The ICJ’s ruling is a landmark decision that has drawn global attention to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The advisory opinion, while not legally binding, carries significant political weight and has the potential to influence international policies and actions regarding the conflict.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian cause, stating, “Proud that Pakistan contributed to the case, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause.”
The ICJ’s decision marks the first time the court has delivered a position on the legality of the 57-year occupation. The ruling states that Israel is in breach of the sixth paragraph of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits the occupying power from deporting or transferring part of its civilian population into the territory it occupies.
Nawaf Salam, president of the ICJ, stated that Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem are being maintained in violation of international law. He added that Israel’s policies and practices in the Palestinian territory amount to the annexation of large parts of these territories and that the court finds Israel systematically discriminates against Palestinians in the occupied territory.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the ruling, asserting that the Jewish people are not occupiers in their own land and that the decision cannot undermine the legality of Israeli settlements.
The ICJ’s opinion underscores the international debate over the legality and ethics of Israel’s settlement activities and its broader occupation of Palestinian territories. The ruling adds significant pressure on Israel from the international community and strengthens the Palestinian case for sovereignty and rights.