Palestinian Envoy Accuses Israel of Violating International Law at ICJ Hearing

NLNetherlands|

A Palestinian diplomat has accused Israel of "starving, killing, and displacing" civilians in Gaza during proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. Palestinian ambassador Ammar Hijazi stated that Israel is also targeting aid workers, a claim Israel denies, maintaining that it does not intentionally strike civilians. This hearing is part of a request from the UN General Assembly, which seeks the court's advisory opinion on Israel's legal responsibilities regarding humanitarian access in the occupied territories.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, addressing the media, criticized the UN and its agencies, asserting that they have weaponized international law against Israel. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with the World Food Programme confirming that its food stocks have been depleted due to Israel's blockade, which began on March 2.

Recent Israeli air strikes in Gaza have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, with local health officials reporting at least 27 deaths just ahead of the ICJ hearing. Amid mounting tensions, the court's deliberations are expected to take several months, involving contributions from 40 states and various international organizations.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Netherlands

Search for Missing Children in the Netherlands Leads to Discovery of Bodies in Vehicle

In a tragic development from the Netherlands, authorities have discovered a car containing multiple bodies during the search for two missing children, identified as Jeffrey and Emma. Police spokespersons, speaking to the ANP news agency, indicated that there is a strong possibility that the bodies may belong to the missing children. The search operation, which has mobilized significant law enforcement resources in the northeastern region of the country, underscores the urgent effort to locate the children who disappeared recently. Officials stated that forensic examinations are underway to confirm the identities of the deceased and determine the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The case has sent shockwaves through local communities, as fears grow regarding the fate of the young children. As investigations continue, police are urging anyone with information on the case to come forward to assist in their inquiries.
NLNetherlands

Scientists Predict Swift End to the Universe, But Not Anytime Soon

New research from Radboud University in the Netherlands indicates that the universe may meet its end much sooner than previously thought, with an estimated lifespan of roughly \(10^{78}\) years—significantly shorter than the past estimate of \(10^{1100}\) years. Lead author Heino Falcke emphasized the importance of this finding, but reassured that a considerable amount of time remains before this eventuality. The study focused on the "evaporation time" of white dwarf stars, the most resilient celestial objects. Researchers based their calculations on the phenomenon of Hawking radiation, a concept introduced by physicist Stephen Hawking in the 1970s. By extending this idea to other celestial bodies, the team aimed to gain insights into the fundamental physics governing the universe's fate. In a related context, researchers also recently revealed that dark energy, which constitutes nearly 70% of the universe, may be weakening. This finding could influence theories regarding the long-term trajectory of the universe, including a potential "Big Crunch" scenario. Despite these findings, cosmologists expect humanity will cease to exist well before the universe reaches its ultimate end.
NLNetherlands

Europol Warns of Rising Online Cults Targeting Children

Europol has issued a warning about the increasing influence of dangerous online cults that are targeting children and adolescents through chat groups and social platforms. These groups aim to manipulate young people, leading some to engage in self-harm or even suicide, according to a recent statement from the agency. The warning highlights the recruitment of vulnerable youth, particularly those aged 8 to 17, on gaming platforms and streaming services. Europol's Director, Catherine De Bolle, noted that these online communities often operate similarly to cults, employing charismatically manipulative leaders who initially present as caring figures—an approach referred to as "love bombing." As the manipulation progresses, members are coerced into sharing explicit content, self-harm, or contemplating suicide. The agency emphasized that these activities pose a significant risk to public safety. Europol urges parents and educators to remain vigilant for signs of distress in young people, including secretive behaviors or increased interest in violent content.
NLNetherlands
All Netherlands News ->