ICJ says Israel must end Rafah offensive

The International Court of Justice on Friday ordered Israel to end its military offensive in the southern city of Gaza, citing an “immense risk” to Palestinians.

The latest ruling marks the third time this year that the court has ordered Israel to improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza as part of its consideration of a genocide case filed by South Africa.

Because the ICJ has no coercive power, its decision is unlikely to prevent Israel from continuing its offensive in the Gaza border town, but it will likely reinforce Israel’s isolation from the West.