On Monday, Malaysia told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that Israel’s actions show a clear aim to remove and destroy the Palestinian population. Speaking at public hearings in The Hague, Malaysian envoy Azalina Othman Said accused Israel of breaking international law and acting against human dignity in Gaza and the West Bank. She also said top Israeli leaders have made public statements that support this claim.
Malaysia Speaks Out at the ICJ
Malaysia spoke during public hearings at the ICJ, also known as the World Court. The hearings are focused on what Israel’s responsibilities are in the Palestinian territories it occupies.
Azalina Othman Said asked the judges,
“What are the duties of an occupying power that keeps ignoring international rules and human rights?”
She said recent comments from Israeli leaders show that their goal is not just about security. According to her, these actions and words suggest Israel wants to deny Palestinians their right to exist and govern themselves.
Statements by Israeli Officials
Azalina highlighted a statement by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. He had warned civilians in Gaza to remove Hamas and bring back hostages—or face destruction. Azalina said this proves Israel’s goal of causing fear and damage to innocent people.
She pointed out that Israel’s military actions over the past year have already caused massive harm. Despite its powerful army, Israel has not been able to meet its stated goals. Yet, thousands of civilians have been killed or injured.
Ongoing Violence and Global Legal Action
The ICJ hearing comes as violence continues in Gaza and the West Bank. Since October 2023, more than 52,000 people have died in Gaza, including many women and children. The war began after a surprise attack by Hamas, but Israel’s response has drawn strong global criticism.
In addition to the ICJ case, Israel is also being investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC). In November, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity.
A Closer Look at the ICJ Hearings
The hearings at the ICJ are open to the public and involve many countries giving their views. They are not criminal trials, but they help shape how international law is applied.
The court is reviewing Israel’s actions in the occupied Palestinian territories, which include Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. These areas have been under Israeli control since 1967, after the Six-Day War.
More than 50 countries have submitted written statements or are expected to speak in court. Malaysia is one of the few Muslim-majority nations taking a strong stand at the ICJ.
Israel’s Position
Israel has refused to take part in this hearing. Its leaders argue that the ICJ is being used as a political tool. They say their actions are about defending Israeli citizens from terrorist attacks.
Israel has long said that peace will only come through direct talks with the Palestinians, not through courts or international pressure.
What Happens Next?
The ICJ will take time to review all arguments before making a decision. Its opinion will not be legally binding, but it could influence other legal cases and international policies.
Human rights groups hope that the hearings will help bring more attention to the suffering of Palestinians. Many are calling for a ceasefire, better access for aid groups, and real talks to solve the conflict.
Global Reaction Grows
Countries around the world are divided. Some, like South Africa, have strongly supported the ICJ and ICC cases. Others, including the United States, have backed Israel’s right to defend itself but urged it to avoid civilian deaths.
Malaysia’s statement is one of the strongest yet. It shows that the global discussion about Israel and Palestine is far from over.
