The Hague (STARTUPNEXT) – A Palestinian envoy has accused Israel of weaponizing humanitarian aid during the ongoing hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as Gaza continues to face mass starvation due to an Israeli blockade. The hearing, which focuses on Israel’s humanitarian obligations in the occupied Palestinian territory, has drawn sharp criticism from Israel’s foreign minister, who slammed the proceedings. The hearings are scheduled to continue for five days.
Amid these tensions, the humanitarian situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire. Medics on the ground reported that Israeli forces killed at least 24 Palestinians since dawn, following a deadly attack that claimed 53 lives the day before. The ongoing conflict, which has now entered its 18th month, has resulted in a staggering death toll. According to the Gaza Government Media Office, over 61,700 Palestinians have been confirmed dead, with thousands still missing under the rubble.
In addition, the international stage saw further violence, with Houthi-affiliated media reporting that US forces bombed a detention center holding African migrants in northern Saada, Yemen. The attack killed at least 68 people and wounded 47 others, highlighting the broader geopolitical instability in the region.
The Israel-Palestine conflict, ignited in October 2023 when Hamas-led attacks on Israel killed over 1,100 people and resulted in more than 200 captives, remains a focal point of international scrutiny. The ICJ hearings will continue to explore Israel’s actions and the humanitarian impact on Gaza, as the world watches closely for further developments.