UN legal chief addresses ICJ on Gaza humanitarian crisis

Elinor Hammarskjold, a Swedish lawyer and diplomat, currently serves as the UN’s Undersecretary-General for Legal Affairs and its Legal Counsel, a position she has held since 2025. She is currently speaking at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Key points from Elinor Hammarskjold's ICJ address:

• Total aid blockade: No humanitarian or commercial supplies have entered Gaza since 2 March, creating catastrophic conditions

• Legal obligations: Israel must comply with international humanitarian law in occupied territories, including allowing UN assistance

• UN casualties: At least 295 UN staff members killed since hostilities began

• Vital services: UN agencies deliver crucial development aid and support across Palestinian territories

• Occupier responsibilities: Israel must maintain civilian infrastructure including:

  • Children's education and welfare systems

  • Medical facilities (including UN-established hospitals)

  • Humanitarian relief operations