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Qatar Condemns ‘Double Standards’ at ICJ Hearing on Israeli Occupation

Al-Qahtani’s assertion that Israel’s policies constitute an “apartheid regime” reflects growing international scrutiny of the occupation’s legality and its impact on Palestinian rights. The ongoing ICJ hearings, attended by representatives from over 50 countries, provide a forum for states to voice concerns about settlement expansion and annexation, amid efforts to mediate a ceasefire in the wake of escalating violence in Gaza.

Published

2 months ago

February 25, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Qatar Condemns 'Double Standards' at ICJ Hearing on Israeli Occupation

In a powerful statement at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on February 19, 2024, Qatar denounced what it termed as “double standards” in the application of international law, particularly regarding Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. Senior Qatari diplomat Mutlaq al-Qahtani, speaking at the hearing in The Hague, criticized the selective enforcement of international law, highlighting the disparity in treatment between different groups.

Al-Qahtani emphasized that international law must be upheld uniformly without discrimination, asserting that accountability is essential regardless of nationality or ethnicity. He accused Israel of maintaining an “apartheid regime” aimed at perpetuating the dominance of Jewish Israelis over Palestinians, labelling the occupation as illegal and a violation of Palestinian rights to self-determination.

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The court proceedings come amidst ongoing efforts by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid escalating violence in the Gaza Strip. Over the past week, the ICJ has heard testimony from over 50 countries regarding the legal implications of Israel’s occupation, with a focus on settlement expansion and annexation policies.

Several nations, including South Africa, Pakistan, Norway, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom, echoed Qatar’s condemnation of Israel’s actions as breaches of international law. While advocating for a two-state solution, representatives expressed concerns about the evolving nature of the occupation, warning against de facto annexation and normalization of unlawful practices.

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Notably, the British representative diverged from the consensus, aligning with the United States in urging the court to refrain from issuing an advisory opinion, citing potential implications for ongoing diplomatic efforts and UN Security Council resolutions.

The ICJ hearings mark a significant step in Palestinian efforts to address Israel’s occupation through international legal mechanisms amidst heightened tensions and violence in the region. Despite Israel’s absence from the proceedings, the court’s deliberations signal a growing global consensus on the need for accountability and adherence to international law in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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The recent war in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of thousands of Palestinians and extensive destruction, underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring justice for all affected parties. The ICJ’s scrutiny of Israel’s occupation policies serves as a critical avenue for seeking accountability and advancing efforts towards a just and lasting peace in the region.

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