UN's Top Court Calls for Humanitarian Aid Access in Gaza

The International Court of Justice has issued an advisory opinion demanding that Israel allows humanitarian aid into Gaza, stating that Israel is in breach of its UN obligations. Despite numerous calls and legal pronouncements, tangible impact remains uncertain. The UN's decisions are influenced by veto powers, limiting action on Palestinian self-determination.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has urged Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing a breach of obligations as a UN member state. The advisory opinion, given on October 22, highlights Israel's failure over the past two years to permit aid appropriately.

This verdict follows the UN General Assembly's request from ten months prior, after Israel banned the UN Relief and Works Agency from operating in occupied territories. The ICJ's decision underscores the prohibition of starvation as warfare under international law, demanding Israel to facilitate aid delivery by UN entities.

Amidst ongoing skepticism about the opinion's impact, the path to Palestinian self-determination remains obstructed. The UN's structure, particularly the veto power of the US in favor of Israel, hinders significant progress in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)