palestine & icj

Dear Beholder,

Music of Choice: Hind’s Hall by Macklemore

 On July 19, 2024, allies and advocates were pleased to hear that the International Court of Justice found that Israel and its current practices on Palestinian land are illegal.

The Opinion goes into detail about the history of the Israeli occupation in Gaza and its actions against the Palestinian people long before the events of October 7, 2023. It was on this day that many became aware of the Israel-Hamas conflict and where global voices announced their support for those being displaced from their homes and those fighting to survive.

However, there has been tension between Israel and Palestine for many years prior to this and the court’s opinion goes further into detail about it.

The ICJ found that Israel’s continued presence in Gaza and Palestinian territory is illegal. Their presence violates its international responsibility, and the country must now cease all settlement activity and repeal all legislation and measures that contributed to the situation. The Court found “extensive evidence” that Israel has severely restricted the populations’ water access and has exploited the country's natural resources depriving the Palestinian people of their sovereignty over natural resources.

One of the stipulations found in the report is that Palestinians who were displaced during the occupation are allowed to return to their place of residence. If that is not possible, Israel must compensate for those losses, according to international law. A small penalty for the thousands of lives lost.

This decision, however, does not mean a free Palestine but is an amazing step in the right direction. Continue to spread the word, continue to raise money or donate if able, and don’t allow the voices of not only those in Gaza but all the oppressed to be silenced.

 #FreePalestine #FreeSudan #FreeCongo

 With gratitude,

Universal Karma

P.S. The full Advisory Opinion can be found on the ICJ Website.  https://www.icj-cij.org/node/204176