ICJ hearings on Israel's obligations in Palestine enter second day

Middle East Eye will be bringing you live updates on the court proceedings as they come. Here is what to expect from today: 

• Hearings resume at The Hague: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) begins its second day of hearings at 08:00 GMT. Over five days, the court will examine Israel's legal duties in occupied Palestinian territories, including Gaza and the West Bank.

• Global input on humanitarian crisis: A panel of 15 judges will hear testimony from at least 40 nations and organisations. The proceedings aim to produce an advisory opinion on Israel's humanitarian obligations toward Palestinians, as Gaza enters its 51st day under near-total aid blockade.

• UN request triggers review: The UN General Assembly referred this matter to the ICJ in 2023 after Israel barred UNRWA from operating in territories under its control.

• Parallel genocide case continues: These hearings are distinct from South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the ICJ. In January 2024, the court ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts by ensuring humanitarian access, but the UN reports Israel has permitted no aid into Gaza since March 2, exacerbating famine risks. Israel rejects these allegations.