The United States participated in a public hearing at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning Israel's obligations regarding the presence and activities of the United Nations and other bodies. The hearing addressed a request from the General Assembly for an advisory opinion on the matter.
Representing the United States was the Office of the Legal Adviser from the Department of State. They clarified the U.S. stance on the resolution referring the case to the ICJ, stating that it unduly focuses on Israel. The U.S. stated that this does not contribute to achieving progress towards a ceasefire or the release of hostages.
"The United States supports the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza with safeguards to ensure assistance is not looted or misused by terrorist groups such as Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which harm Israelis and Palestinians alike."
During the hearing, the U.S. emphasized legal questions and the application of established international laws. They noted the critical roles of the Security Council and the General Assembly under the United Nations Charter. "The U.S. remarks also stressed the particular importance of using established legal frameworks and not taking up invitations from others to establish new obligations that have no basis in international law."
Additionally, the U.S. articulated Israel's right to question the impartiality of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East). "Israel is not obligated to work with UNRWA in these circumstances," they affirmed.
The discussion at the ICJ concerning these legal matters underscores ongoing international dialogue about the complex issues in the region.
