As Israel continues genocide in Gaza killing 30,000 Palestinians since October 7, when Hamas retaliated to decades-long occupational crimes, Turkey has told the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that the situation in Gaza Strip and the West Bank is “extraordinary” and “extremely dangerous”.
According to a report by Anadolu Agency, Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmet Yildiz presented Turkey’s oral statements during advisory proceedings on the legal consequences of Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.
Yildiz urgently called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid, particularly with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan.
Expressing his concern during public hearings in The Hague, Yildiz highlighted reports indicating plans by the Israeli government to restrict Muslim prayers at Haram al Sharif during Ramadan. He also expressed worry about the “provocative rhetoric” from certain Israeli ministers. Yildiz conveyed Ankara’s deep concern about Israel’s unilateral policies and practices that violate the status quo in Haram al Sharif.
Yildiz emphasised that the situation unfolding since October 7 underscores that addressing the root cause of the Gaza conflict is essential for achieving peace in the region. Israel is facing accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice, with an interim ruling in January directing Tel Aviv to cease genocidal acts and ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.
The conflict escalated when Israel launched a deadly offensive on the Gaza Strip following a Hamas attack on October 7. The subsequent Israeli bombardment has resulted in significant casualties, with over 30,000 people killed and more than 69,000 injured.
The region faces mass destruction and shortages of necessities. The impact of the Israeli war on Gaza has led to 85% of the territory’s population experiencing internal displacement, coupled with acute shortages of food, clean water, and medicine.
Furthermore, 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, according to the United Nations.
