UN Court Declares Israel’s Settlements Illegal, Calls for Withdrawal

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that Israel's occupation and settlements in Palestinian territories are illegal under international law. The advisory opinion calls for the withdrawal of Israeli settlers and compensation for damages. Israel has rejected the ruling, asserting that a political settlement can only be achieved through negotiations.

The United Nations' highest court on Friday declared Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories and settlements illegal, urging their immediate withdrawal in what is the court's most decisive stance yet on the Israel-Palestine conflict. The International Court of Justice's (ICJ) advisory opinion, while non-binding, holds significant weight under international law and could erode international support for Israel.

ICJ President Nawaf Salam stated that Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem are established and maintained in violation of international law. The court outlined Israel's obligations, including restitution and the evacuation of settlers from current settlements.

In response, Israel's foreign ministry denounced the opinion as flawed and biased, asserting that any regional political settlement should be negotiated. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office maintained that Jews cannot be occupiers in their ancestral land.

(With inputs from agencies.)