BRUSSELS, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Norway and Slovenia, as well as the United Nations, welcomed a Wednesday ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) highlighting the obligation of Israel to facilitate humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
Calling it a "clear message" from the UN's top court, the country's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said in a press release: "The Advisory Opinion confirms what Norway has long held: Israel must allow the UN, humanitarian organizations, and third states to deliver life-saving assistance and basic services to Palestinians living under occupation."
Norway's Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said the court's findings underscore the "indispensable role" of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and Israel's duty not to obstruct its operations. "Due to the occupation and the ongoing war, the two million inhabitants of Gaza depend on humanitarian assistance. Life-saving aid must continue to enter, and the ceasefire must hold," he added.
According to the press release, Norway will, together with several other countries, follow up the ICJ's Advisory Opinion with a separate resolution in the UN General Assembly.
Meanwhile, Slovenia also voiced support for the ICJ ruling in a statement. The country's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs said the ICJ's decision provides a comprehensive interpretation of Israel's responsibilities under international humanitarian law and international human rights law.
It emphasized that Israel must ensure and facilitate the provision of essential humanitarian aid, particularly through the UNRWA, and respect the privileges and immunities of UN personnel.
The statement added that fulfilling these obligations is crucial for safeguarding the "Palestinian people's inalienable right to self-determination" and promoting peace and stability in the region.
The ICJ ruling said Israel should facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza, including assistance provided by United Nations agencies. It also prohibits the use of starvation as a method of warfare.
On the same day, the United Nations hailed the ICJ's ruling. During a UN briefing, spokesman Farhan Haq underscored that the court emphasized Israel's obligation to allow and facilitate humanitarian efforts by the UN, including by UNRWA.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is attending a forum at the World Meteorological Organization in Geneva, called the ruling "a very important decision" that aims to ensure Palestinians have the "basic needs" to survive. "I hope that Israel will abide by it," he added.
However, Israel dismissed the decision. Its Foreign Ministry called it an attempt to impose political measures on the country. ■