‘Impunity must end’: World reacts to ICJ ruling against Israeli occupation

International reaction has poured in since a ruling by the top United Nations court that Israel’s continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory is unlawful and should swiftly be brought to an end.

Palestinian officials have hailed the International Court of Justice ruling as a “watershed moment” in their decades-long fight for justice. Israel quickly condemned Friday’s decision, while its top ally the United States criticised the ruling on Saturday after initial silence.

While nonbinding, the advisory ruling by the 15 judges found that Israel has no right to sovereignty over the occupied territory, has violated international laws against acquiring territory by force and is blocking Palestinians’ right to self-determination.

It further determined countries are obligated not to “render aid or assistance in maintaining” Israel’s presence in the territory.

Here’s how the world has reacted:

The government of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it respects the ICJ’s “role in upholding international law and the rules-based order”.

“We want to see concrete steps taken by Israel to cease the expansion of settlements to respond to extremist activity,” the government said in a statement, adding that it was still “carefully considering the detail” of the ruling.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Hadja Lahbib said in a social media post: “Belgium will always stand up for the respect of international law.”