19/09/2024 – Sydney

Overnight, the Australian government abstained from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) vote on the implementation of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion on the legality of the occupation.

NIF supports Australia joining its British and Canadian allies in abstaining from this vote after attempting, unsuccessfully, to amend the resolution to reflect the timeline suggested by the ICJ.

In its ruling in September, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) reminded the world of what NIF has maintained for many years – the occupation of the Palestinian territories is illegal under international law and must be brought to an end “as rapidly as possible”. 

This ruling by the Court, and the continued loss of life in this war, demonstrate the urgent need for action by the Israeli government to reach a ceasefire and hostage deal. In partnership with its international allies, the government needs to work towards ending the occupation on a feasible timeline, to help build a viable future for Israelis and Palestinians. However, instead of taking such steps, the far-right, Netanyahu-led Israeli government has increased settlements in the West Bank at a record rate and sanctioned settlers’ attacks on Palestinians living under occupation in the West Bank. 

As NIF grantee, Yesh Din (Volunteers for Human Rights) noted in response to the ICJ ruling: “Israel should examine and change its policy in the West Bank and internalise the consequences from the international community.”

NIF supports the Australian government’s decision to work with its partners to amend the resolution at the UNGA. NIF reiterates its commitment to a two-state solution, which can only be brought about by a ceasefire and hostage deal, and a peace process that recognises a Palestinian state alongside the state of Israel.

Media contact:

Michael Chaitow (NIF), 0432 629 342