UN Court Deliberates on Israel's Gaza Operation Amidst Genocide Claims

The United Nations' top court convened to decide on an order for Israel to halt its military action in Gaza and withdraw. South Africa accuses Israel of genocide, while Israel denies the claims, emphasizing its efforts to protect civilians. The court, despite its legal authority, lacks enforcement power.

The top United Nations court opened a hearing Friday to deliver its decision on a request to order Israel to halt its military operation in Gaza and withdraw from the enclave that has been devastated by more than seven months of war. Israel is unlikely to comply with any such order.

The International Court of Justice has no police to enforce its rulings, even though they are considered legally binding.

South Africa, which accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza, made the request to the court. It says Israeli forces have failed to act on two previous interim orders issued by the court this year aimed at alleviating suffering.

Israel vehemently denies the genocide allegations and insists it is doing all it can to protect civilians as it seeks to defend itself in the wake of the Hamas-led Oct 7 attacks in southern Israel.

The court's president, Nawaf Salam, opened Friday's hearing.