World Court Allows African Union to Advise on Israel’s Responsibilities

The Hague, Netherlands – 22 February – (www.deccanlive.com): The International Court of Justice has allowed the African Union to consult on Israel’s responsibilities regarding activities in the occupied Palestinian territories. The Union can now participate in discussions concerning the actions of the United Nations, other international organizations, and third states related to Israel’s obligations.

According to a statement from the court, and based on Article 66 of the court’s constitution, Acting Chief Justice Julia Sebutinde decided that the African Union can provide information on the matter, which was raised through the General Assembly at the court.

The Acting Chief Justice also stated that, “The African Union can submit a written statement on this matter by the deadline set by the President of the African Union, which is by February 28.”

On December 19, 2017, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution requesting the International Court of Justice for an advisory opinion. The question was whether Israel, as the occupying power and a member of the United Nations, is cooperating with its agencies, and to what extent it is fulfilling its constitutional and legal responsibilities regarding the occupied Palestinian territories.

The goal of this is to ensure the delivery of essential goods and services to support the survival of the Palestinian civilian population, humanitarian and developmental aid, the interests of the Palestinian people, and their right to self-determination.