UN Court Declares Israeli Occupation Unlawful, Calls for Immediate Action

The UN's International Court of Justice issued a landmark opinion stating Israel's presence in Palestinian territories is unlawful, calling for an end to settlement construction and Israeli sovereignty in the region. The decision, criticized by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, may influence global perceptions and bolster the case for a Palestinian state.

The UN's top court has declared Israel's presence in the Palestinian occupied territories unlawful, and has called for an immediate halt to settlement construction. The 15-judge panel of the International Court of Justice issued a sweeping condemnation, challenging Israel's longstanding control over these lands.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu quickly condemned the nonbinding opinion, asserting the territories are part of the Jewish people's historic homeland. However, the decision's wide-reaching implications may sway international views and potentially support unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state.

The court's opinion cited multiple Israeli policies that violate international law, including settlement expansion and discriminatory measures against Palestinians. This decision comes amid heightened tensions following recent violence in Gaza, and may further isolate Israel on the global stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)