UN Rights Chief Urges Action on Israel's Alleged International Law Violations

In a recent address to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, emphasized the urgent need to end the prolonged conflict in Gaza and called for international action against what he described as Israel's "blatant disregard" for international law in occupied Palestinian territories.

Turk's statement, delivered on September 9, 2024, comes as the Gaza conflict approaches its two-year mark. The High Commissioner stressed the importance of adhering to international legal standards, stating, "States must not – cannot – accept blatant disregard for international law, including binding decisions of the (U.N.) Security Council and orders of the International Court of Justice, neither in this nor any other situation."

The UN official's remarks referenced a July 2023 opinion by the International Court of Justice, which deemed Israel's occupation illegal and called for a comprehensive resolution to the situation. It's worth noting that Israel has rejected this opinion.

This ongoing conflict has deep historical roots, dating back to the late 19th century. The United Nations has been involved in peacekeeping efforts in the region since 1948, following the adoption of the UN partition plan for Palestine in 1947 and the subsequent establishment of Israel in 1948.

The Gaza Strip, one of the world's most densely populated areas, has been under Israeli blockade since 2007. The West Bank and East Jerusalem have been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War, with the UN considering Israeli settlements in these territories illegal under international law.

Turk's call for action highlights the complex legal and humanitarian issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The International Criminal Court has opened an investigation into alleged war crimes in Palestinian territories, further underscoring the international community's concern over the situation.

"States must not – cannot – accept blatant disregard for international law, including binding decisions of the (U.N.) Security Council and orders of the International Court of Justice, neither in this nor any other situation."

The UN Human Rights Council, based in Geneva, Switzerland, serves as a forum for addressing human rights issues globally. The High Commissioner's role, appointed by the UN Secretary-General and approved by the General Assembly, is crucial in bringing attention to such matters.

As the international community grapples with this enduring conflict, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) continues to provide vital assistance to Palestinian refugees. The situation remains complex, with historical events such as the Balfour Declaration of 1917 and the Oslo Accords of the 1990s shaping the current landscape.

Turk's address to the Human Rights Council serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the region and the international community's responsibility to uphold legal standards and work towards a peaceful resolution.