ICJ rejects request for urgent security measures in Rafah as Israel plans to expand its ground assault

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has rejected South Africa’s request for urgent measures to safeguard Rafah but emphasized that Israel must respect earlier measures ordered in the preliminary stage of a landmark genocide case. The ICJ stated that the perilous situation in the Gaza Strip, especially in Rafah, demands immediate implementation of provisional measures ordered on January 26. Israel is required to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention and ensure the safety and security of Palestinians in Gaza. The court’s decision comes amid escalating violence, with Israel planning to expand its ground assault into Rafah. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks in Gaza has risen significantly. Additionally, the largest functioning hospital in Gaza, Nasser Hospital, is under siege, raising concerns about the well-being of patients and medical workers. In the Red Sea, U.S. and UK warplanes launched air strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah, following a missile attack on a commercial vessel. The Houthi group vowed more attacks on shipping vessels in response to the U.S. designation of the group as a “global terrorist organization.” The Houthi negotiator accused the U.S. of supporting global terrorism by backing Israel and stated that they would not be affected by the U.S. designation and sanctions.

Source – CGTN