How likely is it for Netanyahu to be tried at the ICJ?
On 24 May 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel, in a ruling, to halt its assault on Rafah, a southern area of Gaza near Egypt border. The president of the international court of justice, Nawaf Salam, ordered Israel to “immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.” This marks the latest setback for the Jewish nation in a war that continues to grind on with heavy civilian casualties and no end in sight. Although the International Court of Justice lacks the means to enforce its orders, the case starkly highlights Israel's global isolation over its campaign in Gaza. This isolation has become especially pronounced since Israel began its offensive against Rafah this month, despite pleas from its closest ally, the United States. Israelis responded with outrage. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s office on Friday rejected South Africa’s allegations of genocide by Israel, calling them “false and outrageous”. In a joint statement released along with the Israeli foreign ministry, Netanyahu’s office said it would continue to allow aid to enter Gaza "in accordance with the law".