The United States has urged the UN's highest court to refrain from mandating Israel's withdrawal from the occupied West Bank and Gaza unless adequate security assurances are provided and Israel's legitimate security concerns are taken into account.

The United States has brought attention to Israel's security concerns during the ongoing hearings at the International Court of Justice, the highest court of the United Nations. These hearings stem from a request made by the UN General Assembly in 2022, seeking a non-binding opinion on the legal ramifications of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.

Acting legal adviser at the US State Department Richard Visek, emphasized the necessity of considering Israel's genuine security concerns in any moves towards withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza, during proceedings at the court.

He highlighted that the UN General Assembly had tasked the UN court with examining the implications of Israeli occupation before the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. Visek added that the security needs October 7 attack, continue to persist, expressing regret that many participants have overlooked them.

The acting legal adviser urged the judges to adhere to the established UN framework for the two-state solution. He stated that Washington has been actively engaging with Palestinians, Israel, and other states to address not only the ongoing crisis in Gaza but also to pursue a political settlement that ensures enduring peace in the region. This settlement includes lasting security measures and a clear path to Palestinian statehood.

The US legal adviser emphasized broad international support for a negotiated solution leading to a Palestinian state. He stated that the court should not deem Israel legally obligated to immediately withdraw from occupied territory. The US continues to back Israel, advocating for a two-state solution, while Israeli leaders hold differing views.

The Russian ambassador asserted that the UN Security Council has unanimously recognized Israeli settlements in the West Bank as a blatant breach of international law and a significant impediment to achieving a two-state solution and lasting peace in the region.

The UN's top court is currently hearing arguments from 52 countries regarding the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands, scheduled until February 26. While the ICJ has been urged not to offer an opinion on the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the occupied territories, many participating states have advocated for Israel to do so. The 15-judge panel has approximately six months to issue their opinion on the matter.

“This landmark vote underscores our collective resolve: We will not reward terrorism by unilateral recognition in response to the October 7 massacre, nor will we accept imposed solutions,” said the Israeli PM.

He added, “This strong stance sends a powerful message to the world: Peace and security for Israel will be achieved through negotiations, not through unilateral actions.”

Image source: WION News