"I expect an imminent implementation of today's ICJ order. The Court underscored the importance of international law, as it decided to continue the case brought by South Africa against Israel in relation to the Genocide Convention, ordering Israel to implement provisional measures to protect the civilian population in Gaza. This is a clear message to Israel that the slaughter of civilians in Gaza must stop,” told Minister Fajon upon the publication of the Court's decision.

Slovenia expects all parties to the conflict to respect the Court's order.

The ICJ ordered Israel to:

• to prevent the commission of all acts within the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the Genocide Convention),
• to prevent and punish any incitement to commit the above acts,
• to immediately prevent the disproportionate killings of civilians in Gaza and deliberate harm to the population, including adverse living conditions,
• to immediately enable the provision of humanitarian assistance,
• to take effective measures to prevent the destruction and ensure the preservation of evidence,
• to submit a report to the Court within one month.

The ICJ explicitly recalled that all parties to the conflict are bound by international law, expressed grave concern about the fate of the hostages abducted during the attack on 7 October and called for their immediate and unconditional release.

Slovenia has repeatedly called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, the provision of humanitarian aid and a peace plan that leads to the two-state solution. The latter is the only guarantee for the security of Israel and peace in the wider region.

It is vital to ensure all measures to protect the population in Gaza and alleviate their suffering. “The death toll of around 26,000, mostly women and children, coupled with almost two million displaced Palestinians represent an immeasurable tragedy. Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children. Ensuring an immediate cease-fire is our collective responsibility. The world failed the test of humanity,” said Minister Fajon at the UN Security Council meeting in New York a few days ago.