In powerful remarks before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Russian representative condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, warning that Palestinians are facing starvation, displacement, and escalating attacks under the ongoing Israeli siege.

Addressing the court on Wednesday, Russia's envoy described Gaza's hospitals as "ruins" and accused Israel of deliberately pushing the population into famine. He also criticised the targeting of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), stating that no other institution can replace the agency's essential role in supporting the Palestinian people.

“The measures taken by Israel against UNRWA are arbitrary and without precedent in UN history,” he said, warning that undermining the agency not only violates international law but also deepens the humanitarian catastrophe facing millions of Palestinians.

The representative denounced Israel's disregard for UN resolutions and humanitarian obligations, particularly in the occupied West Bank, where violations continue unabated. He warned that proposed Israeli legislation to ban UNRWA operations could lead to a total collapse of humanitarian support for Palestinians.

Criminalising UNRWA staff, he added, not only violates legal protections for aid workers but threatens to undermine the integrity of international humanitarian efforts globally.

The ICJ opened a special week of hearings on Monday to examine Israel’s legal responsibilities regarding humanitarian access to Palestinians, following more than 50 days of complete blockade on Gaza. Forty-four countries and four international organisations are participating in the proceedings, which run through May 2.

As famine looms and aid convoys remain blocked, international pressure is mounting on Israel to honour its obligations under international law.