The provisional ruling by the International Court of Justice came in a case brought by South Africa that accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in the small coastal enclave. In the ruling, the court instructed Israel to do more to protect life and prevent destruction in Gaza, including allowing in more humanitarian aid. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had insisted that Israel would pursue its war regardless of the court’s decision. On Dec. 29, South Africa went to the International Court of Justice to formally accuse Israel of committing genocide. In the interim, South Africa asked the judges to issue calls for an immediate cease-fire to protect Palestinians in Gaza while it winds its way through court.

Source: Los Angeles Times January 26, 2024 16:12 UTC