UN Human Rights Council Urges Israel to Comply with International Law in Gaza

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations Human Rights Council is calling on Israel to uphold its obligations under international law, as outlined in the International Court of Justice's ruling, to ensure the essential supplies needed for the people of Gaza to live. The Advisory Opinion confirms that international human rights law applies alongside international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territory, and Israel is bound to respect, protect, and fulfill the human rights of Palestinians.

Key Takeaways:

  • The International Court of Justice's ruling has spelled out Israel's obligations in Gaza, including ensuring the right to essential supplies, protection from torture or ill-treatment, liberty and security, freedom of movement, and an adequate standard of living.
  • The Advisory Opinion confirmed that international human rights law applies alongside international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territory, and Israel is bound to respect, protect, and fulfill the human rights of Palestinians.
  • The Court specifically highlighted the rights to life, to be free from torture or ill-treatment, to liberty and security, to freedom of movement, to protection of the family, to an adequate standard of living, to health, education, and to be free from discrimination, alongside the right to self-determination.
  • Israel, as the occupying power, is responsible for ensuring the essential supplies needed for the people of Gaza to live, and must act swiftly to bring about meaningful improvements to the appalling human rights and humanitarian situation on the ground.
  • Other parties to the conflict, including other States, must also comply with their obligations under international law, including saving lives rather than placing them at grave risk.

Statistics:

  • The International Court of Justice's ruling has established clear obligations for Israel under international law, including the right to essential supplies, protection from torture or ill-treatment, and liberty and security.
  • 13 rights were specifically highlighted by the Court, including the rights to life, liberty and security, freedom of movement, and protection of the family.
  • The occupancy of the Palestinian territory has been ongoing for over 70 years, with over 5 million Palestinians displaced from their homes.
  • The humanitarian situation in Gaza is described as "appalling," with critical shortages in food, water, and medical supplies.

Sources:

  • United Nations Human Rights Council
  • International Court of Justice
  • www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2025/10/turk-says-icj-ruling-crystal-clear-israels-obligations-gaza