Iran has called for an immediate halt to what it describes as Israel’s “chronic impunity” after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an advisory opinion on 22 October regarding Israel’s obligations to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Esmaïl Baghaï, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, said the ruling exposes “the undeniable truth that Israel continues to violate every norm of international humanitarian law.”

The ICJ’s opinion stressed that Israel must not obstruct the delivery of essential aid and is legally obligated to meet the basic survival needs of Palestinians in Gaza. Baghaï highlighted that the court reaffirmed that famine cannot be used as a method of warfare. He also recalled the ICJ’s 2024 advisory declaration deeming the occupation of Palestinian territories illegal, noting that Israel continues to defy international law and has been condemned by both the ICJ and the International Criminal Court for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and acts of genocide in Gaza.

The ICJ is currently reviewing a case brought by South Africa accusing Israel of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. Gaza’s health authorities report that the genocidal war, which began on 7 October 2023, has claimed over 68,000 lives, mostly women and children, and injured more than 170,000. The ongoing violations underscore the urgent need for the international community to enforce humanitarian and legal obligations in the territory.