GENEVA: Countries enabling Israel’s “unlawful occupation” of Palestinian territories, despite warnings of war crimes and potential “genocide” in Gaza, should be considered “complicit,” UN experts stated on Friday.
Navi Pillay, head of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry, emphasized that Israel’s actions create state responsibility not just for itself but for all states involved.
The commission released a legal position paper outlining necessary actions in light of a recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion declaring Israel’s occupation since 1967 as “unlawful.”
The paper also reflects on a UN General Assembly vote last month that called for the end of the occupation within a year. The commission, established by the UN Human Rights Council in May 2021 to investigate alleged violations of international law, highlighted Israel’s obligations to cease new settlement activities and dismantle existing settlements promptly.
Pillay stated that Israel must create a comprehensive plan to evacuate settlers from occupied territories and return land and resources to displaced Palestinians.
Moreover, the commission outlined obligations for other countries, asserting that they must not recognize Israel’s claims over the occupied territories. Nations are urged to distinguish between Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory in their dealings and refrain from recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.
Countries must also avoid providing any aid that supports the unlawful occupation, including financial, military, and political assistance.
The commission warned that states could be complicit in failing to prevent genocide if they do not comply with ICJ orders and continue to aid actions contributing to genocide.
