PIKIRAN RAKYAT - The world's highest court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has finally declared that what Israel did to Palestine is an illegal act and is included in the illegal occupation. Responding to the decision, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Retno Marsudi also gave comments.

In a written statement released on Sunday, July 21, 2024, Retno Marsudi urged that the ICJ’s declaration be immediately followed up with harsh sanctions given to the occupiers for the genocide they committed against the Palestinian people.

Retno called on the Israeli occupiers to immediately end illegal settlements in Palestine and evacuate all Jewish settlers from there. She also demanded that Israel make reparations in the form of restitution and compensation for the occupation that has been going on since 1967.

Not to forget, the Minister urged the General Assembly and the United Nations to help Palestinians who were expelled return to their homes, "In line with the legal edict, Indonesia encourages the General Assembly and the UN Security Council to comply with the Court's request to take appropriate steps to end Israel's illegal presence in Palestine."

Responding to the ICJ edict, the Indonesian Foreign Minister also invited all UN members and the world to oppose Israel's occupation of Palestine. Despite the establishment of Israel's illegal status over Palestine, the Indonesian Foreign Minister reminded the occupiers to carry out their obligations to fulfill the basic rights of Palestinians.

"This legal edict shows that international law is on the side of the struggle of the Palestinian people," said Retno.

Conditions in Gaza due to attacks carried out by Israel. REUTERS/Hatem Khaled.

Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories including the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem is illegal under international law.

"This illegality relates to the entire Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in 1967. The decision also requires third-party countries and organizations such as the United Nations to acknowledge the decision and not provide assistance," the court said, quoted from Reuters, Saturday, July 20, 2024.

It is known and believed by the ICJ that Israel has occupied parts of the Palestinian Territories since 1967 and has repeatedly allowed the construction of new settlements in the West Bank. In fact, previously, the action was declared illegal according to international law by the ICJ in a 2004 decision.

Saturday's decision is separate from a genocide case filed by South Africa in connection with Israel's invasion of Gaza.

Description: The ICJ’s declaration of Israel’s action in Palestine as illegal has prompted Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi to demand immediate sanctions and reparations. She urged the cessation of illegal settlements, compensation for the occupation, and support for displaced Palestinians. This development emphasizes the need for international adherence to the ICJ’s ruling, highlighting the importance of global opposition to Israel’s occupation.*** (Politeknik Negeri Bandung/Sintia Yuliana)