Delivered on Wednesday by a panel of 11 judges, the advisory opinion stresses that Israel must ensure unhindered access to essential supplies, including food, water, medical care, and shelter, for the civilian population in the Gaza Strip.

“International humanitarian law is clear: occupying powers must protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian relief,” the ICJ judges stated. The opinion specifically highlights the role of U.N. entities, such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), whose operations must not be obstructed.

While advisory opinions are not legally binding, they carry substantial moral and legal weight, sending a clear signal to the international community and member states on their responsibilities in addressing the humanitarian crisis.

The ruling comes amid growing concerns from humanitarian organizations over worsening conditions in Gaza, where millions face shortages of food, clean water, and medical care following prolonged conflict.

The International Court of Justice has affirmed that Israel must ensure Gaza’s civilians can access essential humanitarian aid and cooperate fully with U.N. relief operations, underlining the obligations of international humanitarian law.