The European Union has formally urged Israel to comply with the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), emphasizing its legal obligations to facilitate humanitarian aid and cooperate with United Nations agencies in the occupied Palestinian territories.
At a press briefing in Brussels, European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni stated: “We believe that Israel must fully comply with the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.”
He acknowledged that while ICJ advisory opinions are not legally binding, they carry authoritative legal weight and reflect the international community’s expectations.
The ICJ’s advisory opinion, delivered on October 22, 2025, concluded that Israel remains an occupying power in Gaza and the West Bank under international law, due to its effective control.
The Court found that Israel is obligated to ensure access to essential supplies—including food, water, fuel, and medical care—and must not obstruct relief operations by UN agencies, including UNRWA.
It also reaffirmed Israel’s duty to respect the privileges and immunities of UN personnel and facilities under the UN Charter and the 1946 Convention.
El Anouni reiterated the EU’s position that Israel must uphold international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly in Gaza, where humanitarian access has been severely restricted.
He also condemned recent legislative moves by the Israeli Knesset, which last Wednesday gave preliminary approval to two bills aimed at annexing parts of the West Bank.
“Annexation is a violation of international law,” El Anouni warned. “The European Union does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over territories occupied since 1967, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions. Measures taken in this direction breach international legal norms.”
He confirmed that EU sanctions against Israel remain under active consideration. “These sanctions are not directed at the Israeli people,” he clarified, “but are intended to pressure the occupying government to change its course in Gaza and the West Bank.”
The ICJ’s findings align with multiple UN reports and the International Criminal Court’s May 2025 request for arrest warrants against senior Israeli officials for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza.
- Qatar News Agency – EU calls on Israeli occupation to abide by ICJ advisory opinion
- ASIL – ICJ delivers advisory opinion on Israel’s obligations in the occupied Palestinian territory
- GlobalSecurity – ICJ advisory opinion document (PDF)
