The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has granted the African Union permission to participate in advisory proceedings regarding Israel's obligations in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The decision, announced by acting President Judge Julia Sebutinde, allows the African Union to submit a written statement by February 28, 2025, on the matter.

In a statement, the court said Acting President Judge Julia Sebutinde approved the African Union’s participation under Article 66 of the ICJ Statute, citing its potential to offer valuable insights. The African Union has until February 28, 2025, to submit a written statement, as set by the court’s president.

The proceedings stem from a December 19, 2024, resolution by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which asked the ICJ for an advisory opinion. The UNGA wants to know: What are Israel’s obligations, as both an occupying power and UN member, regarding the activities of the UN—including its agencies—along with other international bodies and third states in the occupied territories? The question also covers Israel’s duties to facilitate essential supplies, humanitarian aid, and development assistance to support the Palestinian civilian population’s survival, well-being, and right to self-determination.

The UNGA’s request follows moves by Israel’s Knesset that hampered the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), especially in occupied East Jerusalem. Previously, the ICJ allowed the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States to join the case. (ILKHA)