NATO countries halt arms deal with Israel over ICJ's ruling on accusations of 'genocide'
- In Reports
- 07:28 PM, Feb 09, 2024
- Myind Staff
Major arms companies worldwide have announced the termination of military ties with Israel following the recent ruling by the ICJ. The ruling pertains to the Gaza genocide case, and Israel finds itself under scrutiny amidst an ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Israel faces significant backlash and pressure as a result of this development.
Japan's Itochu, through its aviation arm, has announced the termination of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel's Elbit.
Itochu's Chief Financial Officer Tsuyoshi Hachimura stated, "Taking into consideration the International Court of Justice's order on January 26, and that the Japanese government supports the role of the Court, we have already suspended new activities related to the MoU, and plan to end the MoU by the end of February." This move indicates a significant step in cutting military ties between a Japanese company and Israel.
In a similar move, Spain has decided to suspend all arms exports to Israel. The declaration to halt arms exports to Israel was made by the Spanish Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares. Albares cited the Israeli bombing of UN facilities, schools, and hospitals in Gaza as the reason behind this decision.
Spain has also called upon Israel to adhere to the ICJ's verdict on the Gaza genocide case. Furthermore, the Wallonia region in southern Belgium has temporarily ceased issuing arms licenses to Israel. The regional administration of Wallonia suspended two ammunition export permits to Israel.
The decision was influenced by the recent ICJ directive concerning the Gaza crisis, as articulated by the region's president, Elio Di Rupo. These measures signify increasing international scrutiny of Israel following the ICJ's ruling.
Israel finds itself embroiled in controversy following the accusation of 'genocide' in Gaza. Christophe Collignon, the Minister of Housing of Wallonia, cited the January 26 order of the International Court of Justice and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip as reasons for temporarily suspending valid licenses. This decision underscores growing concerns about Israel's actions and their impact on the region's stability.
The development coincides with Israel's involvement in an intense war with Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the necessity of enhancing local manufacturing capabilities. Netanyahu has called for a reduction in dependence on imported military equipment.
Image source: Hindustan Times
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