JAKARTA: Indonesia and Malaysia said on Sunday that the international community must ensure Israel’s compliance with an order by the UN’s top court to stop its military offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.
The ICJ’s ruling, issued on Friday, demanded that Israel immediately cease its military operations in Rafah and allow unimpeded access for any mission investigating allegations of genocide. Judges at the ICJ described the humanitarian situation in Rafah as “disastrous.”
Both Indonesia and Malaysia, known for their vocal support of Palestine and criticism of Israel, have welcomed the ICJ’s decision.
In a statement, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed support for the ICJ’s ruling and urged Israel to comply with the measures ordered by the court without reservation. The statement also emphasized the role of the UN Security Council in ensuring the implementation of the ruling.
Similarly, Malaysia called on the international community to intensify pressure on Israel to adhere to the ICJ’s ruling, stating that failure to do so would undermine the sanctity of international law.
The ICJ’s ruling comes amidst escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes and ground offensives have resulted in the killing of more than 35,984 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and left tens of thousands wounded.
The emergency ruling was requested by South Africa as part of a wider case accusing Israel of genocide. It marks the third time this year that the ICJ has issued preliminary orders seeking to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Israel’s assault on Rafah, which began earlier this month, has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, exacerbating the already dire situation in the region. The city of Rafah, located on Gaza’s southern edge, has historically served as a crucial entry route for aid, and the Israeli operation has further isolated the enclave, raising concerns about the risk of famine.
While the ICJ’s rulings are final and binding, the court lacks enforcement powers, and its orders have been ignored in the past.
