The International Criminal Court, The Hague, Netherlands. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

i24 News – The International Court of Justice (ICJ) unveiled its decision on Friday, January 26, regarding potential “emergency measures” against Israel following South Africa’s allegations of “state-led genocide” in Gaza.

The judgement summary was no immediate order to halt the war, but assistance must be provided to improve humanitarian conditions, take measures to prevent acts or incitement against the genocide convention, to preserve evidence and provide a report of government acts taken.

ICJ President Joan Donoghue stated in light of initial findings, the court has jurisdiction to hear the case and won’t remove it from the docket, as requested by Israel.

Donoghue later said the ICJ finds a plausible link for need of some of the provisional measures requested by South Africa.

South Africa initiated ICJ proceedings, accusing Israel of committing ‘genocide against the Palestinian people’ during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas conflict triggered by the October 7 Hamas-led attack. The Israeli government has staunchly denied these claims.

The South African delegation sought nine provisional measures, urging the court to compel the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to cease military actions in Gaza during the proceedings, aiming for an enforced ceasefire.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to his South African counterpart, Naledi Pandor, on Thursday night. According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the two discussed the Gaza conflict and reaffirmed the importance of the U.S.-South Africa partnership, particularly in health, trade and energy.

Different countries started weighing in, such as Turkish and Iranian presidents expecting a verdict in Israel, and Germany saying it will respect any decision.

Israeli officials, regardless of the ICJ’s call, affirm their unwavering commitment to ‘asserting the right to self-defense.’

Anticipating the ICJ’s decision in The Hague, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu orchestrated a special meeting. Simultaneously, Hamas issued a preliminary proclamation, expressing ‘willingness for a ceasefire’ if sanctioned by the court, hinging on reciprocal commitment from Israel.

Hamas reiterated its call for the release of Palestinian prisoners, the end of the Gaza siege, and the provision of vital aid to residents.