The ICJ Advisory Opinion

Posted: 24th October 2025

Episode 9:
The ICJ Advisory Opinion

Yesterday, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered its long-awaited Advisory Opinion on the Obligations of Israel in relation to the Presence and Activities of the UN, other international organisations and third states in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Key Findings of the Court
The ICJ confirmed that Israel has an obligation to:

• Respect and protect all relief and medical personnel and facilities.
• Uphold the prohibition against forcible transfer and deportation.
• Refrain from using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare.
• Fulfil the human rights of people living under occupation, including through the activities of UNRWA and the UN.

The Court also found no evidence to support Israel’s claim that UNRWA operates on behalf of Hamas.

Context
Since this request was submitted to the Court, Israel has:

• Killed over 300 UNRWA staff members.
• Conducted more than 10 strikes targeting medical facilities and personnel in the past two months.
• Killed over 1,580 health workers since October 2023.
• Destroyed 90% of Gaza’s schools, including those supported by UNRWA.

The UK has not yet responded to the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion – even as it now has personnel on the ground supporting ceasefire operations alongside the US.

In this episode, Lara Bird-Leakey examines the Court’s findings – and what they mean for international law, humanitarian relief, and Britain’s responsibilities.

 Listen now on all podcast platforms lik eSpotify, Apple Podcasts, SubStack or YouTube – just search ‘Britain Palestine Project.’

With thanks for listening and sharing,
The Britain Palestine Project Team