On Friday 26 January, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, and the European Commission took note of the order issued on the same day by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning South Africa’s request for the indication of provisional measures vis-à-vis Israel in the context of the war being waged against Hamas in Gaza.
In its order, the ICJ called on Israel to prevent any act of ‘genocide’ and to allow the provision of basic services and humanitarian aid to the Gazans. Israel must report within one month on the measures taken to comply with the ICJ’s orders.
“The orders of the International Court of Justice are binding on the Parties and they must comply with them. The European Union expects their full, immediate and effective implementation”, stressed the High Representative, reaffirming the EU’s support for the ICJ.
Mr Borrell pointed out the right of each party to present arguments on jurisdiction, admissibility or the merits is not affected by the decision on South Africa’s request for provisional measures. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)